26-27 SY Counselor (High School)

Colorado Springs School District 11•Colorado Springs, CO

About The Position

Palmer High School is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School where students and staff are part of a community that believes everyone belongs, and where everyone can thrive. Rooted in the IB mission, we develop inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who learn to understand that people with their differences can also be right. At Palmer, you’ll collaborate with committed educators, value diverse perspectives, and design innovative, real-world learning experiences in the heart of Colorado Springs! SUMMARY OF FUNCTION: School Counselor – Provides academic, career, and social-emotional counseling services aligned with the ASCA National Model. A school counselor will utilize leadership, advocacy, and collaboration to promote student success, provide preventive services, and respond to identified student needs by implementing a comprehensive school counseling program that addresses academic, career, and social/emotional development for all students. Educators at Colorado Springs School District 11 are professional practitioners who ensure that every student has access to rigorous, engaging, and equitable learning opportunities. They embody the district’s values of innovation, inclusion, collaboration, and excellence, and are key contributors to creating a thriving school culture that supports academic and social-emotional success. Core expectations include maintaining inclusive and supportive learning environments, using data to inform practice, collaborating with colleagues and families, advocating for student needs, and engaging in continuous professional learning. SSPs uphold professional ethics, confidentiality, and standards of practice established by their state and national professional organizations.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in education or related field
Master’s degree or higher in an approved area of specialization (if required for CDE License).
Valid Colorado Special Services Provider License
Minimum of three (3) years of successful experience in the assigned discipline or related professional practice (may include internship or clinical experience).

Nice To Haves

Additional endorsements or certifications
Prior K–12 public school experience
Bilingual proficiency (English/Spanish or other district-identified languages).

Responsibilities

Provide Specialized Services to Students
Deliver direct, evidence-based services to support the academic, social, emotional, behavioral, and physical development of students.
Design and implement individualized interventions aligned with student needs and professional standards.
Consult and Collaborate with Educators and Families
Partner with teachers, administrators, and families to identify student needs and develop effective support strategies.
Provide guidance and professional consultation on best practices for student success and well-being.
Participate in Multidisciplinary Teams
Contribute to the evaluation and development of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Section 504 Plans, or other student support plans.
Collaborate within multidisciplinary teams to ensure coordinated, comprehensive support for students.
Support School-Wide Systems and Frameworks
Assist in the development and implementation of school-based support systems, including Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) frameworks.
Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and supports to improve student outcomes.
Respond to Crises and Advocate for Students
Provide crisis intervention and support as needed to ensure student safety and well-being.
Advocate for equitable access to educational opportunities and resources for all students.
Maintain Professional and Ethical Standards
Uphold confidentiality, cultural responsiveness, and ethical practices in all aspects of work.
Comply with federal, state, and district regulations and professional licensure requirements.
Engage in Professional Growth and Leadership
Participate in ongoing professional development to maintain licensure and enhance expertise.
Contribute to school and district initiatives focused on student support, equity, and wellness.