SUMMARY

The Guidance Counselor will assist students in areas of academic achievement, personal or social development, and career exploration so that each student can identify personal goals, strengths, weaknesses, and interests and grow to become a well-adjusted and productive adult.

The Diocese of Orlando four core values lay the foundation for the work performed by employees:

1. Authenticity: Conviction that God has called us to reflect exteriorly our inner life of faith in our daily living

2. Respect: Affirming each person’s God-given dignity and uniqueness.

3. Courage: Inspired by this gift of the Holy Spirit, we proclaim and live the Word of God fearlessly and devotedly.

4. Commitment: Individually and collectively, we are steadfast to the team and its purpose.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

The following duties and functions, as outlined herein, are intended to be representative of the type of tasks performed within this classification. They are not listed in any order of importance. The omission of specific statements of the duties or functions does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

· Assesses the needs, strengths, and weaknesses of students through a variety of means including one-on-one assessments, conversations, or interviews; standardized or aptitude testing; small group activities; and observations throughout the school day.

· Collaborates with students to identify career aspirations and academic goals; provides information and answers questions related to college applications and career choices.

· Assists students with academic planning, accountability, and/or organization.

· Teaches a variety of skills including social skills, study skills, and test-taking skills.

· Counsels students with personal, social, disciplinary, and behavioral issues.

· Collaborates with teachers to identify ways to improve the achievement and social development of students.

· Promptly notifies appropriate authorities of any reports or suspicions of crimes, abuse, or neglect.

· Collaborates with other educators, parents, and students to develop, review, renew, and/or modify Individualized Education Plans or 504 plans for students who qualify.

· Performs other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

CATHOLIC FAITH

Requires an appreciation and respect for the Catholic Church and its teachings. Church employees must conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with and supportive of the mission and purpose of the Church. Their public behavior must not violate the faith, morals or laws of the Church or the policies of the diocese.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

· Hold a Master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling or 

· Have Florida teacher certification in the area of Guidance and Counseling within three years of hire or have a valid Florida state license in an areas of mental health such as Clinical Social Worker, Mental Health Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, Clinical Psychologist, or any other area in mental health which the state licenses 

· Must hold or obtain Faith Fit Enrichment Certification in Levels 1, 2, and 3 within three years of hire and continue ongoing enrichment. 

OTHER SKILLS and ABILITIES

· A high level of organizational and interpersonal skill is required. 

· Attention to detail and working well with others is also required. 

· Must have the ability to manage and to present oneself professionally.

· Ability to communicate effectively with subordinates. 

· Ability to effectively communicate with Principal as well as staff, students, and parents. Confidentiality is essential.

· Ability to apply basic mathematical concepts such as adding, dividing, and multiplying.

· Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. 

WORKING CONDITIONS

· Work is performed mostly in an office setting. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The ability to sit and stand for long periods of time. Must be able to reach, grasp, feel, and see up close and from afar. Must be able to use basic office computer hardware and peripherals, with or without reasonable accommodation. Must be able to communicate verbally and in written form. Tasks require the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (15 pounds). 

A review of this position has excluded the marginal functions of the position that are incidental to the

performance of fundamental job duties. All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions

and requirements are subject to possible modifications to reasonably accommodate individuals with

disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbent(s) will possess the abilities and

aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Requirements are representative of the minimum level of knowledge, skills, and ability.