About This Role
The Middle School Adjustment Counselor at Pioneer Charter School of Science II plays a crucial role in supporting the social, emotional, behavioral, and interpersonal development of students in grades 5 through 8. This position emphasizes student wellness, behavior management, discipline, conflict resolution, and fostering a safe and positive school culture.
Responsibilities
- Provide individual and small group counseling focused on students' social, emotional, and behavioral needs.
- Support students in developing self-regulation, emotional awareness, communication skills, conflict resolution skills, and responsible decision making.
- Respond to student crises, behavioral concerns, peer conflicts, and emotional support needs.
- Collaborate with families, teachers, and administrators to support student wellbeing and behavioral growth.
- Participate in student support meetings, safety planning, and behavioral intervention planning as needed.
- Maintain accurate counseling records and documentation in accordance with school policies and confidentiality requirements.
- Assist families in accessing outside counseling or community-based support services when appropriate.
- Develop and teach character education classes and lessons for middle school students.
- Lead instruction and activities focused on topics such as respect, responsibility, empathy, citizenship, integrity, digital citizenship, and conflict resolution.
- Oversee the middle school behavior management and discipline system.
- Investigate student conduct concerns and respond appropriately using restorative and progressive discipline practices.
- Coordinate and supervise bus procedures, transportation concerns, and communication related to student behavior on buses.
- Maintain regular communication with families regarding student behavioral and social emotional concerns.
- Support schoolwide initiatives related to student wellness, behavior, safety, and culture.
Requirements
- Degree in Counseling, School Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field required.
- Must hold a valid Massachusetts School Adjustment Counselor or Social Worker license or appropriate state licensure required for the position.
- Experience working with middle school students strongly preferred.
- Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to build positive relationships with students, staff, and families.
- Experience with restorative practices, behavior intervention systems, and student discipline preferred.
- Ability to plan and deliver engaging character education lessons for middle school students.
- Ability to remain calm, professional, and student-centered in high-stress situations.