POSITION: School Counselor

LOCATION: Manassas Park High School

SALARY: Teacher, 220-Day Scale (mpark.net/departments/human_resources)

LENGTH: 220 Days/11 months

APPLICATION DEADLINE: July 1, 2025

IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR: School Principals

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

Job Summary

The School Counselor designs, implements, and evaluates a comprehensive school counseling program aligned with the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model. The counselor supports all students in the areas of academic achievement, social-emotional development, and college and career readiness through classroom lessons, individual counseling, and group counseling.

The School Counselor also serves as a key liaison between school staff, administration, families, and the broader community, ensuring each student has access to the supports necessary for success. This position reports to the Principal and/or Assistant Principal.

Required Qualifications

Master’s degree in School Counseling, including coursework aligned with the ASCA National Model
Valid Virginia Department of Education license with a School Counseling endorsement, or eligibility to obtain one
Demonstrated cultural competence and sensitivity to the needs of diverse student populations
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and staff

Key Responsibilities

Adhere to all federal, state, and local laws and MPCS School Board policies
Design and implement data-informed counseling programs that support students’ academic, attendance, and behavioral success
Provide direct instruction through developmentally appropriate lessons in classrooms, small groups, and one-on-one settings
Collaborate with teachers and administrators to address student needs and promote school-wide success
Lead the academic and career planning process for students, including individualized student planning
Deliver responsive counseling services and short-term, solution-focused interventions
Respond to crises and refer students to appropriate mental health resources when needed
Facilitate and participate in Student Support Team meetings and collaborate with community-based organizations
Organize and lead workshops for students and families on academic, social-emotional, and career-related topics
Coordinate postsecondary planning events such as college visits, career days, and internships
Maintain accurate and confidential records in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations
Engage in ongoing professional development and stay current on best practices in school counseling
Prepare reports, communications, and event materials for students, staff, and families
Perform other duties as assigned to support the effective functioning of the school counseling program

Physical Requirements

Must be able to communicate effectively in person and via phone/email
Regular use of office equipment (e.g., computer, copier, fax machine)
Some physical activity may be required, including standing, walking, bending, lifting, and reaching

Employment Conditions

Criminal background and fingerprint clearance
Tuberculosis screening

Equal Opportunity Statement

Manassas Park City Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to nondiscrimination and the fair treatment of all employees and students, as required by federal and state law. Reasonable accommodations are available to individuals with disabilities.

This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position. Responsibilities and duties may be modified as needed to meet the needs of the school or division.

2025-2026: School Counselor