Guidance Counselor

About the role

CONNALLY INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT JOB TITLE: Elementary Counselor                                            WAGE/HOUR: Exempt/Professional REPORTS TO: Principal                                                             PAY GRADE: 2 / $56,938 - $87,434 DEPARTMENT: Varies DAYS: 197 ROLE AND PURPOSE: The Elementary School Counselor provides a comprehensive, developmentally appropriate school counseling program that supports students' academic growth, personal and social development, wellness, and college and career awareness. At CISD, this role helps ensure students receive the guidance, support, and interventions needed to succeed in school and build a strong foundation for future learning. QUALIFICATIONS: Education/Certification: - Master's degree in school counseling, counselor education, or a related field  - Valid Texas school counselor certification required; TEA states candidates for the standard school   counselor certificate must complete an approved educator preparation program, hold a master's   degree, and complete the required exam. Texas no longer requires two years of classroom teaching   experience for school counselor certification.   Experience: - Strong knowledge of comprehensive school counseling practices, including academic support,   individual student planning, responsive services, and system support   SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS: - Ability to work effectively with diverse students, families, staff, and community partners  - Strong counseling, communication, interpersonal, and collaboration skills  - Ability to use student data and technology tools to support student growth and program   improvement  - Commitment to student wellness, academic success, and equitable access to support  - Bilingual skills preferred  MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES: I. COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL COUNSELING PROGRAM  - Plan, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive elementary school counseling program aligned to   campus and district priorities.  - Use student data to identify needs, monitor progress, and improve counseling services and student   outcomes.  - Develop an annual school counseling plan aligned to campus improvement goals and district    priorities.  - Participate in required meetings, professional learning, and continuous improvement activities.   II. STUDENT SUPPORT AND RESPONSIVE SERVICES  - Provide direct counseling services to individual students and small groups using evidence-based   practices.  - Support students experiencing academic, behavioral, social-emotional, or crisis-related    challenges.  - Apply crisis response, prevention, and de-escalation strategies as appropriate.  - Support students identified as academically at risk and help close gaps in student achievement.  - Make appropriate school-based and community referrals in accordance with district procedures.   III. ACADEMIC, COLLEGE, AND CAREER READINESS  - Promote academic success, student goal setting, and age-appropriate college and career   awareness.  - Support individual student planning and help students build the habits and skills needed for long-   term success.  - Promote awareness of student progression requirements, educational pathways, and future   readiness.  - Provide opportunities for academic enrichment and support student readiness for secondary and   postsecondary pathways over time.   IV. FAMILY, STAFF, AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP  - Collaborate with teachers, administrators, families, and community partners to support student   success.  - Maintain strong visibility, accessibility, and communication with students, families, and staff.  - Share relevant information with families and staff using appropriate technology and   communication tools.  - Coordinate with school and district personnel to strengthen student supports and school climate.   V. COMPLIANCE AND PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES   - Follow federal and state law, district policies, ethical standards, and student confidentiality   requirements.  - Consult with appropriate professionals when legal, ethical, or student welfare questions arise.  - Support safe, orderly, and effective school operations.  - Perform other duties as assigned by the principal or designee. VI. WORKING CONDITIONS: MENTAL DEMANDS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS - Tools/Equipment Used:  Standard office equipment, including computer and peripherals. - Posture:  Prolonged sitting and standing; occasional stooping, squatting, kneeling, bending,   pushing/pulling, and twisting. - Motion:  Frequent repetitive hand motions, including keyboarding and use of mouse; occasional   reaching. - Lifting:  Occasional light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds). - Environment:  Works in an office setting; may require occasional irregular and/or prolonged   hours. - Attendance:  Regular and punctual attendance at the worksite is required for this position. - Mental Demands:  Maintains emotional control under stress; works with frequent interruptions. APPROVED: Human Resources Department May 2026