Guidance Counselor / Student Support Specialist

Joshua Christian Academy • Des Moines, IA

400d • $35,000 - $45,000

About The Position

The Guidance Counselor / Student Support Specialist plays a crucial role in fostering the academic, emotional, and social growth of students in a Christ-centered school community. This position involves providing counseling support, academic guidance, and developing programs that promote student well-being and development. The ideal candidate will be flexible and proactive, capable of supporting multiple campuses and addressing the diverse needs of students.

Requirements

• Degree or background in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field (required).
• Licensed or certification in counseling (LPC, LCSW, or similar) is preferred.
• Experience in a counseling or student support role, ideally in a school setting.
• Strong understanding of child development, emotional well-being, and learning strategies.
• Comfortable working with elementary or middle school-aged children.
• Understanding of and commitment to Christian values in education and counseling.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive issues with professionalism and discretion.
• Ability to work independently and manage a flexible schedule across multiple campuses.
• Creative and proactive mindset, with the ability to use downtime productively.

Responsibilities

• Provide counseling and emotional support to students dealing with personal, academic, and social challenges.
• Offer individual and group counseling sessions to address issues such as anxiety, conflict resolution, academic stress, peer relationships, and spiritual development.
• Serve as a resource for teachers, staff, and parents, providing guidance on how to support students' emotional and social well-being.
• Develop and lead workshops or small group sessions focused on life skills, emotional regulation, personal development, and conflict management.
• Assist students with academic planning, including setting goals, managing study habits, and addressing learning challenges.
• Collaborate with teachers and the academic team to identify students who may need additional support.
• Support students in developing study skills, organizational skills, and strategies for academic success.
• Work with students on time management, test preparation, and creating action plans for academic improvement.
• Supervise and engage with students during recess, fostering a safe and inclusive environment.
• Develop and implement structured playtime activities to encourage teamwork, communication, and leadership skills.
• Assist with conflict resolution during recess, helping students resolve disputes peacefully.
• Provide students with tools and strategies for managing behavioral challenges.
• Work with teachers and parents to develop individualized behavior support plans.
• Be a trusted mediator for student conflicts, helping students navigate interpersonal issues.
• Regularly meet with parents to discuss student progress, emotional well-being, and academic development.
• Collaborate with teachers and other school staff to ensure that each student's needs are being met.
• Provide guidance to parents on how they can support their child's emotional health and academic growth at home.
• Develop and facilitate age-appropriate development programs on various topics.
• Lead or assist with chapel services or school-wide assemblies on topics related to student wellness.
• Coordinate programs that help students build character and grow spiritually.
• Maintain confidential records of counseling sessions, progress, and student well-being.
• Report on student development trends and needs to the Head of School and other staff members.
• Assist in the preparation of student reports related to emotional, social, and academic development.

Benefits

• Flexible work schedule
• Opportunity to impact student lives
• Supportive school community
• Professional development opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Social Assistance
• Education Level: No Education Listed