Full-Time Lower School Counselor

AIM Academy is seeking a full-time counselor to support our Lower School division. The counselor will report to the Head of Lower School and partner with families, faculty, school administrators, and outside professionals to create safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments by applying expertise in social emotional development, mental health, and behavior.AIM seeks instructors who are committed to collegiality and have high expectations for all students. Prior experience working with students with language-based learning differences and familiarity with the Responsive Classroom approach is preferred. Since AIM Academy is dedicated to the work of equity and diversity, candidates should value engaging in open dialogue, questioning, confronting assumptions, and attuning to all voices. We invite you to read our “Equity and Diversity Statement” located on our website at www.aimpa.org At AIM Academy, our hiring process reflects our culture, ethics, and core values: Care for Others, Creative Problem Solving, Commitment to Excellence, and a Can-Do Attitude. Areas of Responsibility:Student Support/Counseling:Work with students requiring social-emotional support during individual and group interactions (i.e. social skill groups, brief counseling sessions, risk assessment, etc.)Observe and interact with students in the school environment in order to recommend appropriate support strategiesMeet with teachers, parents/guardians, administrators, and other appropriate parties as needed to advise about appropriate social-emotional support and to organize necessary school-based interventionsCollaborate with outside service providersProgramming:Provide programmatic and schedule recommendations and input regarding students' educational needs, necessary accommodations, support strategies, and instructional practices In collaboration with the Student Support Team, design and present social-emotional and psycho-educational lessons and curricula in the classroom to support students in developmentally appropriate social-emotional learning topicsLead professional development sessions and support classroom activities to implement research-based, developmentally appropriate, culturally competent, and ethical interventions that will enhance students' learning and overall well-beingOther:Serve as a member of the Lower School Core Leadership Team to address student needs, create plans to be implemented both at school and at home, and provide guidance about school-wide issuesDevelop engaging presentations for Lower School familiesServe as the point of contact for ongoing communication and collaboration with faculty and families around students requiring social-emotional support Create an atmosphere of trust and collaboration among faculty and families in order to promote collegiality and enhance student learning and growth

Qualifications

Master’s Degree, Educational Specialist Degree, Doctoral Degree in School Psychology, MSW, or related field (required)Minimum of 3-5 years working in school setting, independent school setting preferredState certification and licensure standards fulfilledAbility to adjust strategies to meet the diverse needs of learnersStrong understanding of the range of development and learning styles among elementary-aged childrenKnowledge of and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion practices and their impact on classroom climate and curriculum Excellent writing, editing, and communication skills at both the student and family levelsStrong organizational skills and attention to detailAbility to work flexibly and collaboratively with students, families, and facultyDemonstrated commitment to professional development and lifelong learningOpenness to feedback from an instructional support teamStrong technology skills and familiarity with assistive technologiesTo Apply:Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to Cheryl Ferst at cferst@aimpa.org.