ANTICIPATED OPENING FOR THE 2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR

FUNDING CONTINGENT ON TOWN MEETING APPROVAL MAY 22, 2024

BELLINGHAM PUBLIC SCHOOLS

BELLINGHAM, MASSACHUSETTS

TITLE:             Guidance Counselor   

SCHOOL:        Bellingham High School  

FUNCTION:  The Guidance Counselor is directly responsible to the School Principal, and also reports to the Guidance Supervisor.  The position requires counseling of students in the high school setting and other duties as assigned by the School Principal and Guidance Supervisor.

DUTIES:

1. Knowledge of, and practical application of, the psychology of learning; the diagnosis and treatment of learning and behavior disorders; personality theory, and normal and abnormal development of children and adults throughout all stages of the life cycle; theories and techniques of individual, group, and family counseling which address the needs of diverse racial, socioeconomic, linguistic and cultural populations; principles, practices and recent research in school guidance counseling; federal, state, municipal and school laws and regulations, including the implications of liability and the requirements of due process; the philosophy and organization of guidance and counseling services; career counseling and career development theory, including helping students and parents assess occupational goals, and providing opportunities for career exploration; prevention programs; computer skills to enhance guidance functions; principles of effective interaction between students, families and school; referral skills needed to direct individuals to resources within the school system or the community.

2. Uses language appropriate to the age, stage of development, culture, linguistic and social background of students and their parents; interprets and responds appropriately to students' verbal and non-verbal communications; uses appropriate interviewing skills and other forms of oral and written communication; fosters a relationship with students that encourages open communication and the attainment of objectives; writes clear and concise reports and educational recommendations; explains functions, services and procedures clearly to students, parents, teachers, administrators and the community; collaborates with regular and special education team members, including sharing knowledge and skills, carrying out assigned tasks, supporting the contributions of others,

          and providing leadership in those problem situations where appropriate; understands

          the physical, social, emotional and psychological factors that strengthen and detract

          from students' academic achievement; communicates with other professional staff

          and consults effectively with the wider school community.

3. Remains abreast of major trends, issues and advances in the field; participates in professional development activities, including action research, to promote professional growth; develops and pursues a personal plan for professional development in guidance counseling based upon self and external evaluation.

4. Understands the importance of education in a democratic society, including the need to provide equal educational opportunities; accepts and respects individual and group differences with regard to gender, language, race, sexual orientation, religion, socioeconomic background, and values; identifies and uses educational resources and agencies which provide support and expertise for education of regular and exceptional students; fosters a school climate that addresses the individual needs of students in a multi-cultural society; recognizes and addresses bias in teaching materials, assessment instruments, school practices and school organization; acts in accordance with the ethical principles of the profession; understands and addresses the historical and political backgrounds of the major gender, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation, and cultural groups in the school district; recognizes and responds to the impact of common psycho-social pressure on students, including human sexuality, child abuse, discrimination, AIDS, and substance abuse; works for effective integration of all students into school and community settings; understands appropriate assessment procedures and counseling methods for linguistically diverse individuals and families and uses appropriate techniques to address multi-cultural issues.

     5. Assumes responsibility for related duties that may be assigned by the building

         Principal and/or Guidance Director.

     6. Adheres to the policies and procedures of the Bellingham School Committee.

QUALIFICATIONS:

     1. A minimum of a Master’s Degree or equivalent district or other program with a major

         or equivalent in counseling

     2. Massachusetts Certification as a Guidance Counselor required.

PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Good health – willing to submit to a medical examination
2. Ability to relate well with administrators, staff, parents, students, and the community.
3. Must be a person of high professional and personal integrity