Professional School Counselor- 10 Month

As a Professional School Counselor at Memphis-Shelby County Schools, your primary responsibilities include planning, implementing, and assessing the school’s guidance program. You'll play a crucial role in increasing students' academic, social, emotional, and environmental strengths, alongside performing necessary administrative tasks. You'll need to engage with students, provide guidance, and work collaboratively with faculty and families to promote holistic student development.

To qualify for the Professional School Counselor position at Memphis-Shelby County Schools, candidates must graduate from an accredited college or university with a Master’s Degree in school counseling. Additionally, a minimum of one year of related experience is required, culminating in a total of seven years of education and experience combined. State certification in Guidance and Counseling is also mandatory.

The Professional School Counselor plays a vital role in student success at Memphis-Shelby County Schools by creating a supportive environment, addressing both academic challenges and emotional needs. Counselors provide personalized guidance, develop and implement intervention strategies, and act as advocates for students, fostering their strengths and helping them overcome barriers to success.

Essential skills for a Professional School Counselor at Memphis-Shelby County Schools include effective communication and listening abilities, strong problem-solving skills, and the capacity to work independently as well as collaboratively. Additionally, counselors need to demonstrate compassion, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning to thrive in a fast-paced educational environment.

A Professional School Counselor significantly impacts community engagement at Memphis-Shelby County Schools by bridging connections between students, families, and the community. They facilitate programs that encourage parental involvement, promote school events, and create partnerships that benefit the wider community, ultimately fostering a collaborative environment that supports student achievement.

When developing a guidance program, I would start by assessing the unique needs of the student population through surveys and discussions with staff and families. This data-driven approach would help ensure that the program is tailored to meet the academic and emotional needs of the students, while also incorporating best practices and evidence-based strategies.

In a previous role, I encountered a student struggling with academic pressure. I approached the situation with empathy, listened to their concerns, and collaborated with relevant staff to create a supportive plan, which included regular check-ins and adjustments to their coursework as needed. Ultimately, open communication and a holistic approach led to improved outcomes.

Building rapport starts with communication; I make it a priority to be approachable and actively listen to my students. I also engage them in activities they enjoy, demonstrating that I value their interests and perspectives, which fosters trust and encourages openness.

I regularly attend workshops, participate in professional organizations, and subscribe to relevant journals to stay informed about the latest trends and best practices in school counseling. Networking with fellow counselors also provides insight into innovative approaches that can be applied in practice.

In the event of a crisis, I would first prioritize the immediate safety of the student, then follow established protocols to ensure they receive the necessary support. Communication with staff, families, and external services would be essential to ensure the student feels safe and understood throughout the process.

Absolutely! I once analyzed data from student feedback and academic performance metrics to identify areas for improvement in a counseling program. Based on the findings, I adjusted our focus areas and implemented targeted workshops that led to increased engagement and measurable progress in student outcomes.

Parents play a critical role in students' educational success by providing emotional support, encouragement, and reinforcing academic habits at home. Building a strong communication channel with parents enhances collaboration and ensures that we work together as a cohesive support system for the students.

Handling conflicting priorities requires a balanced and thoughtful approach. I evaluate each situation to understand the urgency and impact it may have on the students involved. By negotiating and creating a triage system, I ensure that every student's needs are addressed in a timely and fair manner.

Promoting mental health awareness involves creating a safe environment to discuss feelings openly. I conduct workshops, integrate mental health topics into classroom discussions, and provide resources that empower students to seek help when needed, fostering a culture of openness and support.

I am passionate about being a Professional School Counselor because I believe in the potential of every student. It is incredibly fulfilling to empower them, help them navigate challenges, and witness their growth firsthand. Making tangible impacts on their lives drives my commitment to this vital role.