Position Overview

The Lower School Counselor supports the academic, social-emotional, and spiritual development of students in grades K–5 at Cherry Hills Christian School. This role partners closely with teachers, administrators, and families to equip students with the skills needed to thrive in the classroom and in relationships. The counselor provides proactive classroom support, short-term counseling, and strategic interventions that help students build resilience, self-regulation, healthy relationships, and a love of learning.

The Lower School Counselor is a relational, servant-hearted professional who helps remove barriers to learning so that every child can flourish academically, socially, and spiritually. This role integrates faith and mental health practices while cultivating a safe, supportive, and Christ-centered school environment.

Key Responsibilities

Efficiently Build and Maintain Counseling Support

As the Lower School Counselor at Cherry Hills Christian School, you will:

· Assess school-wide and classroom needs through formal data collection and informal teacher collaboration

· Plan and facilitate social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum in classroom, small group, and large group settings

· Partner with teachers to support classroom success through strategies that promote focus, emotional regulation, and positive peer relationships

· Gather student information through interviews, observations, case histories, and participation in RTI/PLT meetings

· Provide short-term individual or small group counseling for students experiencing academic, behavioral, or social-emotional challenges

· Collaborate with administrators, teachers, and support staff to develop effective strategies that support students in the classroom

· Utilize evidence-based tools to respond to student safety concerns during school hours and facilitate referrals when needed

· Provide training and resources to staff regarding counseling topics such as confidentiality, mandatory reporting, emotional regulation strategies, and student wellness

· Other duties specified by the director to support students and families at CHC

· Support teachers with classroom interventions that help students remain engaged and successful in learning environments 

Cultivate Positive Relationships with Children and Families

· Develop and maintain strong rapport with students and families

· Represent Cherry Hills Christian School in a professional, compassionate, and Christ-centered manner

· Provide parents with resources, referrals, and guidance to support their child’s academic and emotional well-being

· Create opportunities for informal student connection and availability throughout the school day

· Pray for the children and families you serve and integrate faith into counseling interactions when appropriate

· Maintain professional ethics regarding confidentiality while ensuring proper documentation of counseling services according to HIPAA standards

Ensure Accurate, Timely Response to Communication Requests (Phone or Email)

· Manage communication requests from families, faculty, and staff in a timely and thorough manner

· Maintain professionalism, discretion, and a service-oriented approach in all communication

· Build trust by maintaining the confidentiality of sensitive information

Demonstrate a Commitment to Growth

· Engage in professional development opportunities related to school counseling, child development, and mental health trends

· Attend department and all-staff meetings

· Maintain professional relationships with outside providers and school counseling networks

· Pursue ongoing learning that strengthens the integration of faith, emotional wellness, and student support

Position Details

Title: Lower School Counselor
Reports To: Director of Lower School
Position Type: Full-time, exempt
Hours: 40+ hours/week (school calendar)

Salary Range: $54,000 - $94,000 based on experience
Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 403B Retirement
Location: Cherry Hills Christian School – Highlands Ranch, CO

QUALIFICATIONS

· A strong and growing personal relationship with Jesus Christ, evident both personally and professionally

· Agreement with and commitment to the CHCS mission statement, core values, and statement of faith

· Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree in counseling, psychology, or related field preferred

· Licensed Clinical Mental Health Professional (or registered licensure candidate)

· Experience working in a school setting preferred

· Experience with crisis management and student safety protocols

· Ability to build strong, trusting relationships with students, families, and staff

· Strong communication and collaboration skills

· Comfort with public speaking and facilitating classroom lessons

· Strong organizational and documentation skills

· Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional ethics

· Ability to pass a criminal background check

· Professional attitude and appearance

Must agree to the mission statement, values, and faith statement