School Counselor

Job Description

Rio Grande School is an interdisciplinary school that serves students from three years old to grade six, with class sizes ranging from 16-21 students, a 6:1 student-educator ratio, and a total school population of 170. Located at the base of the Sangre De Cristo Mountains on five acres of high desert, surrounded by arroyos and hiking trails, Rio Grande School is perfectly situated for students to engage with both the natural wonders of the outdoors and the academic challenges of the classroom. By nurturing this culture of thinking our students are taught to think critically — to be both leaders and learners.

Rio Grande School is seeking a New Mexico-licensed counselor, social worker, or psychologist who will be responsible for working with students in kindergarten through sixth grade. The ideal candidate will be a currently licensed mental health professional with a minimum of three years of experience working with this age group, preferably in a private or public school environment.

This is a part-time (twenty four hours per week), ten month position. Some evening and weekend work may be required.

Responsibilities

Provide crisis assistance and crisis intervention as needed during school hours.
Conduct classroom observations as requested for social-emotional concerns within the classroom setting.
Provide direct counseling services to individuals and/or small groups of students as short-term interventions.

Consult with teachers, parents, and outside agencies regarding the educational, social-emotional, or behavioral interventions needed for students struggling in the educational setting.
Act as a liaison between the school and outside mental health providers.
Collaborate with teachers and support staff during student support team meetings.
Aid in problem solving to develop appropriate support and accommodations for students with behavioral and/or social-emotional difficulties.

In conjunction with the Learning Support Specialist develop support learning plans and 504s as needed.
Consult with the Head of School about students of concern.
Educate faculty and staff about various developmental, emotional, and behavioral issues that may impact the school environment.

Work with educators in incorporating social-emotional instructional practices in their classrooms.
Maintain confidentiality of student information, including but not limited to academic records, evaluations, and sensitive conversations.

Specific Skills & Abilities

Possess the ability to work collaboratively across all grade levels.
Demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills and professionalism.
Have an understanding of child development and its social and academic impact.
Show a demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.