Metco Counselor

Department: METCO Job Title: METCO Counselor FLSA Status: (Exempt/Non-exempt) Exempt; Unit A Reports to: METCO Director In compliance with state and federal laws, newton public schools is committed to equity, anti-racism and a nondiscrimination policy for students, employees and prospective applicants. All educational and employment determinations are based on an individual's qualifications and achievements without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, pregnancy, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, ancestry, homelessness, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by state and/or federal statute. Summary: The METCO Counselor provides academic, social enrichment and support to Newton METCO students attending elementary and middle schools. Monitor the academic performance of Newton METCO students as well as develop and implement strategies to enhance academic achievement and maximize opportunities. Responsible in supporting the developmental needs of Newton METCO students. Will actively support student academic achievement, cultural and social adjustment of students and families and develop strong and collaborative relationships with faculty and staff. Qualifications: REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Master's Degree in Social Work, Counseling. Demonstrated success working with students and families of diverse backgrounds in academic and social settings. At least 3 years of relevant experience. DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS: DESE Certification in School Guidance Counselor, Adjustment Counselor, or Social Worker Counseling experience at elementary and/or middle school level K-5 and/or 6 - 8. Bilingual, Spanish/English. Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities (Not Limited To): Provide academic and social enrichment and support for Newton METCO students. Serve as a liaison for Newton METCO parents by maintaining phone and email contact. Consult with administrators, classroom teachers, guidance counselors and students. Perform other duties as assigned by the Newton METCO Director. a. Meet individually with students to establish and monitor goals related to school performance by reviewing past performance and study habits, identifying barriers to academic achievement, and developing strategies to address barriers. b. Meet with faculty members to: Identify individual and general academic problem areas and to strategize solutions together; Increase sensitivity to and understanding of the Newton METCO students' individual and collective experience. Develop group activities (small group activities, whole group with outside speakers and/or field trips) for Boston students to address concerns. Work with students, faculty and parents to maintain high performance expectations of Newton METCO students. Enhance school/family communication and connection by sharing information about school and Newton METCO activities, community resources and student's achievements. Acts as resource to staff in the on-going development of a multicultural program. Consult regularly with teachers and guidance counselors to assess the academic and social progress of Newton METCO students. Coordinate in conjunction with teachers and pertinent specialists, extra help sessions or any other special academic or counseling assistance needed. Assist families in the planning of Boston students' academic schedule and monitor course level changes, additions and drops. Serve as advisor to Boston students on academic, personal and social matters. Supplement the guidance department in facilitating transition planning and placement for Boston students. Serve as a member of Chapter 766 evaluation teams for Boston students and will participate in parent/teacher conferences when appropriate. Will serve as liaison between student/teacher, student/parent, school/family. Work in conjunction with METCO Director to establish programs that will broaden the scope of Boston students. Meet regularly with Newton METCO Director to discuss student progress. Assume such other duties as may from time to time be assigned by the Superintendent and Newton METCO Director. Maintain high academic and behavioral standards for Newton METCO students. Attend Newton METCO parent meetings and assist in providing educational/cultural workshops for parents. Consistent and on-time attendance is required for supervision and instruction of the students Work Environment & Physical Requirements: Work Environment: Majority of work is performed in shared office space, classrooms and conference rooms in 4 - 5 school buildings. Physical Requirements: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk, stand, sit, talk, and hear. The employee is regularly required to bend, stoop, crouch and/or kneel. The employee is occasionally required to lift and/or move objects weighing up to 25 pounds.