School Counselor

Polk County Public Schools is looking to hire several certified school counselors to provide a comprehensive counseling program for students in elementary, middle, or high schools throughout Polk County. School counselors have a significant impact on student outcomes through their support of the academic achievement of all students and ensuring equity and access to all.

Locations include:

• Auburndale High School - Auburndale, FL
• Ridge Community High School - Davenport, FL
• McLaughlin Middle School - Lake Wales, FL
• Crystal Lake Middle School - Lakeland, FL
• Lakeland Highlands Middle School - Lakeland, FL
• Shelley S. Boone Middle School - Haines City, FL
• Sleepy Hill Middle School - Lakeland, FL
• Rosabelle Blake Academy - Lakeland, FL
• Bella Citta Elementary - Davenport, FL
• Crystal Lake Elementary - Lakeland, FL
• Eastside Elementary - Haines City, FL
• Garner Elementary - Winter Haven, FL
• Griffin Elementary - Lakeland, FL
• Purcell Elementary - Mulberry, FL
• Wagner Elementary - Lakeland, FL

You'll be a great fit for this position if you:

• are a strong communicator - You have the ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• are a people person - You have the innate ability to work cooperatively and effectively with others.
• know your field - You have knowledge of the principles and practices of counseling as well as the developmental, physical, social/emotional needs and abilities of students, and cultural diversity. You are proficient in legal and ethical compliance standards (i.e., American School Counselor Association ethical standards).
• are comfortable working with technology - You are proficient in current technology and software and would adapt well to technology used in this role.
• are not afraid to speak up - You are comfortable with providing leadership and professional learning to staff and colleagues. You embrace the responsibility to advocate for students and provide education, prevention, and intervention appropriately.
• sweat the details - You use your attention to detail to ensure excellence in your work. This allows you to set priorities and work independently and effectively to meet deadlines.
• can work well with data - You have knowledge of data collection and analysis and can use those skills to implement data-rich, needs-driven, and research supported programs.

Here's how you'll make an impact in our district:

• Provide a comprehensive counseling program that addresses academic, personal/social, and career development by designing, implementing, evaluating, and enhancing a program that promotes student achievement.
• Provide school guidance support based on the Polk County Developmental Guidance Plan and provide services to students, parents, staff, and the community.
• Implement federal, state, and local mandates pertaining to the field of school counseling. 
• Facilitate the successful transition and progression of students throughout the system.
• Develop and maintain a written plan for effective delivery of the school counseling program and communicate the goals to educational stakeholders.
• Direct services to address guidance curriculum, individual student planning, and preventative and responsive services.
• Work with students individually and in groups.
• Provide consultation to teachers and other school personnel regarding students and make referrals as appropriate.

Applicants must meet the following education and certification requirements to be considered for the position:

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master's Degree in Counselor Education or Guidance and Counseling
• Valid Florida certification in Guidance and Counseling K-12 from the Florida Department of Education