Middle School Counselor : 2026-27 School Year

Ft Larned Unified Sch Dist 495•Topeka, KS

About The Position

USD 495 is seeking a Middle School Counselor for the 2026–27 school year to work with students at Larned Middle School. About USD 495 USD 495 is a PK–12 district serving about 850 students. We are a small, close-knit district where students are known by name and supported by staff who work closely together. Our elementary school focuses on strong foundations, positive relationships, and helping every student grow academically and socially.

Requirements

Hold or be eligible for a valid School Specialist License (School Counselor endorsement) issued by the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE).
Master’s degree in School Counseling or completion of a KSDE-approved school counseling preparation program.
Completion of supervised practicum and internship experiences in a school setting.
Demonstrated knowledge of academic, social/emotional, and career development for middle-level students.
Strong skills in individual and group counseling, crisis response, and collaboration with staff and families.
Knowledge of confidentiality laws, mandated reporting requirements, and ethical standards for school counselors.
Effective communication, organization, and data-driven decision-making skills.

Responsibilities

Provide individual and small-group counseling to support students’ academic, social, and emotional development.
Develop and implement a comprehensive school counseling program aligned with Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) standards.
Collaborate with teachers, administrators, and families to support student achievement and well-being.
Monitor student academic progress and assist with course planning and high school transition.
Respond to student crises and provide appropriate referrals to school and community resources.
Use data to identify student needs, evaluate program effectiveness, and promote equitable access to support services.