Founding Student Counselor | Des Moines Prep

The Founding Student Counselor at Des Moines Prep is responsible for providing social-emotional support to students, fostering strong relationships, and ensuring a nurturing environment rooted in high expectations. They will collaborate with families, educators, and community organizations to celebrate student achievements, address challenges, and implement programs focused on leadership and communication.

To qualify for the Founding Student Counselor role at Des Moines Prep, candidates should have at least three years of experience as a school counselor or in a related student support role, ideally within a high school setting. Familiarity with Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and a strong background in restorative practices or other student-centered behavioral supports are important. A passion for fostering a positive school culture is essential.

The Founding Student Counselor contributes to the school culture at Des Moines Prep by acting as a primary advocate for students' social-emotional well-being. They plan and implement advisory lessons, lead community service initiatives, and work closely with students and families to create a supportive and inclusive school environment that promotes student success.

The Founding Student Counselor will provide social-emotional support, develop strategies for academic success, and assist in planning interventions for behavioral or emotional challenges. They will work closely with the Dean of Academics to ensure students have access to appropriate resources and a robust Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) framework.

Candidates should embody a commitment to Des Moines Prep’s mission of creating an atmosphere of excellence and joy. Ideal traits include a student-centered mindset, strong problem-solving abilities, a collaborative leadership style, and the capacity to build trust and relationships with students, families, and staff.

Supporting a struggling student involves a proactive approach that starts by building trust and rapport. I would first meet with the student to discuss their challenges in a safe and supportive environment. Using a combination of counseling techniques, I would work collaboratively to identify their needs, set achievable goals, and involve their families and teachers to create a united support system around the student.

In my previous role, I developed advisory programs that focused on critical skills such as leadership, teamwork, and personal development. I engaged students in interactive workshops that included role-playing scenarios, group discussions, and community service projects, thus encouraging them to apply what they learned in real-world contexts while fostering a sense of belonging.

I would utilize a data-driven approach that incorporates regular assessments and feedback from teachers, students, and families. Using tools such as progress monitoring checklists, student surveys, and academic performance data, I would evaluate the effectiveness of interventions to ensure that all students receive the support they need at the right time.

Engaging families requires consistent communication and partnerships. I would facilitate regular updates on student progress, invite families to participate in school events, and provide resources that help them support their child's academic and emotional development at home. Building strong relationships with families creates a network of support that can significantly enhance student success.

Creating an inclusive culture begins with understanding and respecting the diverse backgrounds of students. I would promote cultural awareness through programs that celebrate different traditions and experiences. Encouraging open dialogue among students about diversity and inclusion can foster empathy and ensure that every student feels valued and included.

In a crisis situation, my first instinct would be to stay calm and ensure the student's immediate safety. I would listen to the student with empathy, assess the situation, and coordinate with necessary staff and resources to provide support. Developing a crisis intervention plan in advance ensures that all team members know how to respond efficiently and effectively.

Community service initiatives are key to fostering a sense of responsibility and connection among students. They provide opportunities for experiential learning while instilling values of compassion and teamwork. I believe that by engaging students in meaningful projects that align with our school’s mission, we can enhance their social-emotional skills and create stronger ties within the community.

Building resilience starts with teaching students coping strategies to manage stress and setbacks. I would incorporate resilience training into advisory lessons, focusing on positive self-talk, goal setting, and problem-solving skills. Encouraging a growth mindset helps students view challenges as opportunities to learn and grow.

Celebrating student achievements, big or small, is vital for maintaining motivation and a positive school culture. I would implement recognition programs such as 'Student of the Month', showcase achievements in newsletters and assemblies, and even establish informal celebrations during advisory sessions to share successes among peers.

In my previous role, I worked extensively with restorative practices, which focus on repairing harm and restoring relationships. This requires a shift from punitive measures to collaborative problem-solving, where affected parties engage in dialogue to navigate conflicts. Training students and staff in these practices creates a more understanding and forgiving school environment.