Lower School Counselor

Our Mission

Charles Armstrong School unlocks the unique potential of students with dyslexia and related learning differences, changing the trajectory of their lives.

Charles Armstrong School is the premier school for children with dyslexia and related learning differences in the San Francisco Bay Area and has a national reputation for excellence. Charles Armstrong School is a non-profit, independent, coeducational day school of approximately 240 students in grades 1-8. Charles Armstrong School is an equal opportunity employer.

Position Overview:

The Lower School Counselor is an integral member of our Student Support Team who provides comprehensive emotional and social support for Lower school students while working in close partnership with our academic program. Understanding that emotional well-being and academic access are deeply interconnected for students with learning differences, this role requires a holistic approach that bridges mental health support with classroom success. The Lower School Counselor collaborates extensively with teachers, the Student Support Team, and families to ensure that social-emotional support enhances students' ability to develop self-advocacy skills and access their education.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Educate students on understanding self, strengths and challenges through reflective conversations and activities
• Individual intervention to improve emotional regulation strategies to increase on task time
• Establish and maintain a cooperative relationship with faculty, staff and administration to facilitate the provision of optimum guidance and counseling services for student success.
• Attend Grade Level Meetings (GLMs) to focus on coordinating student support
• Guide students in understanding communication with peers, conflict resolution skills
• Serve as consultant to parents and guardians, faculty, staff and administration.
• Conduct short-term groups to address social skill needs and build connections
• Assess risk for suicidal ideation, self-harm and abuse and neglect as indicated and follow up as required
• Conduct parent workshops and faculty training on topics related to student wellness when necessary
• Evaluate students and identify need for counseling, complete referrals for outside services as needed.
• Participate in parent-teacher conferences as needed
• Conduct interviews of prospective students and serve as a member of the Admissions Committee, reviewing applications and interviewing prospective students
• Keep accurate records of all counseling and guidance activities
• Protect the confidentiality of student records and release personal data in accordance with state laws and Board policies
• Assist in Outdoor Education field trips through planning and supervision as needed

Education, Certifications, and Work Related Experience:

• Master’s degree preferred in the field of social work therapy or counseling
• Minimum five years counseling, preferably in a school setting with language-based learning differences

Expected Skills:

• Expert clinical, interpersonal, and communication skills
• A passion for working with students with dyslexia and related learning differences
• Able to partner with community members at all levels: students, families, faculty, staff, administrators, and outside care providers
• Demonstrated commitment to cultural responsiveness and a trauma-informed approach to student wellness and learning
• Crisis management experience, including the ability to respond effectively and calmly in unpredictable situations

Charles Armstrong School Benefits:

• Competitive salaries commensurate with experience, ranging from $90,000 - $120,000 annually
• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision package, 403b plan
• Professional development program, including Wilson Reading System training
• Professional development program and wellness stipend
• Tuition reimbursement

To apply:

Direct resumes to: Hiringcommittee@charlesarmstrong.org

In lieu of a cover letter, please complete Employment Application: https://bit.ly/ApplyatArmstrong

Charles Armstrong School

1405 Solana Drive, Belmont, CA 94002

www.charlesarmstrong.org

(650) 592-7570

About CHARLES ARMSTRONG SCHOOL

Charles Armstrong School was founded in 1968 and enrollment has grown to approximately 240 students serving grades 2-8. Charles Armstrong serves high potential students with language-based learning differences, such as dyslexia, empowering them to strive as learners in school and life. Armstrong is recognized as the premier school for LD students in northern California.

Connections working at CHARLES ARMSTRONG SCHOOL