Lower/Middle School Counselor

School Counselor – Lower/Middle School

Albany Academy is an independent Pre-K through Grade 12 school in Albany, New York, uniquely combining single-gender and coeducational learning environments to foster intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and strong character in each student.

At the heart of our school is a passionate and highly skilled faculty, deeply committed to the academic, social, and emotional development of every student. Our educators go beyond classroom instruction; they serve as mentors, role models, and advocates who support the growth of the whole child. Through small class sizes and individualized attention, they challenge students with a rigorous, engaging curriculum while nurturing confidence, creativity, and resilience.

Albany Academy's dynamic community values and celebrates diverse perspectives and life experiences, enriching the learning environment for all. Aligned with our Mission and Core Values, we are steadfast in our commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and academically excellent school culture—one where students are inspired to lead lives of purpose, empathy, and integrity.

Position Summary: School Counselor- Lower/Middle

The Lower/Middle School Counselor is a student-centered professional who supports the academic, social-emotional, and behavioral development of students in grades PreK–8. This role involves working collaboratively with students, families, faculty, and administration to foster a positive, inclusive, and supportive school environment. The counselor plays a key role in developing and implementing proactive social-emotional programming and providing direct support to students.

Essential Duties:

Student Support & Counseling

• Provide short-term individual and small-group counseling to support students’ social, emotional, and behavioral needs
• Support students in developing skills in self-regulation, problem-solving, peer relationships, and resilience
• Respond to student concerns and provide crisis support when needed
• Collaborate with faculty to support students in the classroom setting

Social-Emotional Programming

• Design, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive social-emotional learning (SEL) program aligned with best practices
• Develop and deliver developmentally appropriate SEL lessons for students across grade levels
• Partner with teachers to integrate SEL practices into daily classroom routines
• Use data and observations to refine and strengthen programming

Parent & Family Engagement

• Create and facilitate parent workshops and resources focused on social-emotional development, behavior, and wellness
• Partner with families to support student growth and address concerns proactively
• Serve as a resource for parents navigating developmental, social, and emotional challenges

Collaboration & Consultation

• Work closely with teachers, administrators, and student support teams to develop and implement support plans
• Participate in team meetings to discuss student progress and interventions
• Provide guidance and strategies to faculty to support student behavior and emotional well-being

Assessment & Referral

• Assist in identifying students who may need additional support or evaluation
• Collaborate with outside providers and coordinate referrals when appropriate
• Support the implementation of recommendations from evaluations and learning plans

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in School Counseling, School Psychology, Social Work, or related field
• NYS state certification/licensure, preferred

Experience & Skills

• Required:
  • Experience working in a school-based setting, preferably with lower and/or middle school students
  • Demonstrated experience creating and implementing social-emotional programming for students
  • Experience teaching social-emotional lessons in classroom settings
  • Experience developing and facilitating parent education workshops or programming

• Preferred:
  • Familiarity with evidence-based SEL frameworks (e.g., Responsive Classroom)
  • Experience supporting a diverse student population
  • Strong collaboration and consultation skills
  • Ability to use data to inform programming and interventions

Schedule

• 10-month position
• The typical workday is 7:45am – 4:15pm

Working Environment & Physical Requirements

• Generally, the role is conducted in a classroom or office environment
• Most of the work is done sitting or standing
• Routinely move about inside the building and from building to building
• Frequent interaction with others speaking, listening, and typing
• Ability to operate office equipment including computers, printers, copiers, and the like

Disclaimer

• Must be capable of fully performing all duties described herein, either without or with reasonable accommodation
• Albany Academy reserves the right to alter this job description
• Employment with Albany Academy is at-will