Oak Grove School, a small pre-K through 12th-grade progressive college preparatory school in Ojai, California, is seeking an experienced and student-centered Part-Time College Counselor to support our high school students in the college and post-high school exploration and application process.

Oak Grove’s college counseling program reflects our broader educational philosophy: guiding young people toward self-knowledge, thoughtful inquiry, and meaningful engagement with the world. We support students not through pressure or competition, but through reflection, discernment, and a deep respect for each student’s unique path. College planning at Oak Grove is integrated into a larger process of academic growth and post-high school exploration.

The College Counselor will work closely with students and families to provide individualized guidance, helping students navigate college research, application planning, essay development, and decision-making. This role also supports the school’s broader post-high school programming, including conversations about gap years, alternative pathways, and purpose-driven futures.

This is a part-time hourly position, ideal for an experienced counselor who enjoys working in a relational, progressive school environment.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Provide individualized college counseling for high school students, including academic planning and application strategy
• Support students in identifying colleges and programs aligned with their interests, values, and goals
• Guide students through essay writing, application materials, and submission timelines
• Partner with families in the college process through meetings, communication, and educational guidance
• Assist with programming related to post-high school exploration, including gap year options and alternative pathways
• Collaborate with the High School Director, advisors, and faculty to support students holistically
• Maintain organized documentation of student progress and application plans

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required

• Strong understanding of college admissions processes, timelines, and application platforms
• Ability to support students with warmth, clarity, and developmentally appropriate guidance
• Experience working in progressive, student-centered educational environments
• Excellent writing support skills, particularly around personal statements and reflective essays
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and anti-bias practices in counseling and advising
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple student plans simultaneously
• Excellent communication and collaborative partnership with students, families, and colleagues
• Familiarity with Oak Grove’s philosophical foundation and inquiry-based approach to education

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in counseling or education preferred
• Minimum of 3 years of college counseling or related secondary school advising experience
• Experience working with independent school students and families

About Oak Grove School

Oak Grove School is a Pre-K through 12th grade, progressive day and boarding school in Ojai, California. The mission of Oak Grove School is to assist students in developing those qualities of mind, heart, and body that will enable them to function with excellence, care, and responsibility in the modern world. In addition, it is the intention of the school to offer a place where the whole community can inquire together into the perennial questions of humankind and explore an approach to life that is whole, mindful and intelligent.

Connections working at Oak Grove School