Counselor (2026-2027)

- Deadline to Apply May 15th, 2026 -

Counselor

Exempt, Salary - 190 Contracted Days

Reports to: Dean of Culture

Organizational Overview:
Grow Public Schools (GPS) mission is to be a network of high-performing schools in Kern County, dedicated to academic excellence that empowers all students to thrive through a foundation of health and wellness, college and career readiness, and lifelong success. We believe education and wellness are fundamental pillars for success, and their harmonious integration paves the way for brilliant and vibrant futures.

Founded in August of 2011 by the Grimm Family Education Foundation, GPS is committed to serving the Kern County community through high-quality public education. GPS currently operates two TK-8 schools, Grow Academy Arvin and Grow Academy Shafter, serving more than 1,600 students.

Summary Description: The Grow Public Schools Counselor supports student success by implementing a comprehensive, research-based school counseling program that promotes academic achievement, college and career readiness, and personal/social development. Through leadership, advocacy, and collaboration, the counselor delivers direct services to students and partners with staff and families to build a positive and inclusive school culture.

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Comprehensive Counseling Programming

• Implement a research-based, developmentally appropriate counseling program aligned with the GPS Strategic Plan and College & Career (C&C) goals.
  
• Deliver brief individual counseling and small group counseling sessions that address academic, personal/social, and career goals.
  
• Provide crisis intervention and responsive services as needed.
  
• Provides applicable materials and resources to teachers for doing guidance activities in their classrooms.
  
• Use student data to identify and support all students, individually or in groups, with developing academic, career, and personal/social skills, goals, and plans.
  
• Maintain and distribute college, career, and community resources for students, staff, and families.
  
• Monitor student academic performance, behavior, and attendance to inform interventions.
  
• Implement an effective referral and follow-up process.
  
• Manage and communicate a clear means for counseling referrals and access to counseling services.

College & Career Readiness (TK–8)

• In collaboration with the Director of Alumni and Family, implement college and career programming aligned with network-wide strategic priorities.
  
• Plan and lead events such as College & Career Week, high school exploration and college awareness activities, A-G workshops, and student recognition assemblies.
  
• Maintain up-to-date resources related to careers, colleges, family engagement, classroom supports, and community services.

School Culture and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

• In collaboration with the Dean of Culture, support the implementation of SEL curriculum and Restorative Practices, including peer mediation and schoolwide recognitions such as Gathering and the Student Store, which reinforce Tier 1 behavioral expectations and a positive school culture.
  
• Implement Tier 2 observations and support plans identified through MTSS processes.
  
• Develop and manage behavior support plans in coordination with student support teams.

Collaboration and Support

• Consult with and support teachers, administrators, and families in promoting student development and access to learning.
  
• Communicate regularly with families and staff regarding student progress and available resources.
  
• Provide staff with materials and strategies to accommodate diverse student needs.
  
• Develop and maintain a clear referral process for counseling services and ensure appropriate follow-up.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Training in Restorative Justice practices and SEL frameworks
• Strong knowledge of child development and counseling strategies
• Understanding of assessment tools and student achievement data
• Experience with MTSS and behavior intervention planning
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and consultation skills
• Ability to build trusting relationships with students, families, and staff
• Organized, detail-oriented, and proactive in managing caseloads and responsibilities

Required Education and Experience:

• Valid California Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential – School Counseling
• 3–5 years of school counseling experience preferred
• 1–2 years of classroom teaching experience preferred