Why we are the right fit for you: St. Theresa Catholic School is a beautiful 22-acre campus in the heart of Austin, Texas. We have a team of dedicated teachers and an amazingly generous parent community. With a commitment to individualized attention, our students seek knowledge and are eager learners. The Elementary & Middle School Counselor at St. Theresa Catholic School skillfully nurtures and facilitates the spiritual, emotional, behavioral, academic, and social development of our students. This position has decision-making responsibilities within the framework of school policies, philosophy, organization, and curriculum. This is a full-time position hired and evaluated by the school Principal.

Ministerial Character

Catholic schools in the Diocese of Austin are canonically obedient to the bishop and assist him in fulfilling his ministry and canonical obligations. Pastors, presidents, and principals serve as leaders of the schools to make Christ's mission present and enduring in the schools. In order to fulfill Christ's mission, the school leaders employ suitable, chosen collaborators, sharing with them Christ's mission and entrusting various responsibilities to them.

Essential Duties

• Supports and upholds the philosophy of Catholic education and the mission of the school.
• Acts as a witness to Gospel values by modeling the teachings of the Catholic Church.
• Supports and adheres to the Code of Conduct and policies and procedures of the school and Diocese.
• Maintains confidentiality regarding school matters.
• Communicates effectively with students, parents, and other professionals.
• Prepares and implements the guidance program for students.
• Assists in the identification of student learning needs.
• Coordinates the testing program and assists with test interpretation for teachers, students, and parents.
• Disseminates information and provides direct services regarding admissions.
• Assists students with social/emotional issues and offers referral options for outside counseling.
• Maintains current and accurate records according to school policy.
• Meets staff development guidelines as set forth by the Diocese/local administration.
• Demonstrates professionalism in conduct, demeanor, and work habits.

Important job functions:

• Keeps up to date with effective guidance practices and programs.
• Coordinates with faculty and staff concerning student achievement and other needs.
• Continues personal growth through association membership in professional organizations.
• Assists with scheduling and other student-oriented tasks.
• Collaborates with peers to enhance the work environment and support instructional planning.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Know the basic teachings of the Catholic Church.
• Knowledge of child development, learning, and behavior.
• Knowledge of standardized assessment instruments and applicable interpretation.
• Able to communicate effectively in both written and verbal form.
• Able to work well with others in the school community.
• Able to work independently and be self-motivated.
• Able to organize and manage multiple projects and tasks.
• Able to respond to crises effectively.
• Skill in organizing and relating information in an understandable format.
• Skill in job-appropriate technology.
• Skill in critical thinking and planning.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

• Master's Degree in Counseling or master's degree in Psychology or Social Work with courses included or added that address theories and methods in counseling, psychology of adolescence, and academic testing.

Experience:

• 3 years in education, school counseling field, or related area.

Catholic Requirement:

• A practicing Catholic is preferred.

Certifications and Training:

• Valid Texas driver's license.
• Must maintain compliance with the Diocese of Austin Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM) policies throughout the employment period.
• Must meet the minimum requirements for the counseling field as set forth by the Diocese and TCCBED.
• Must meet staff development guidelines as set forth by the Diocese and school administration.