School Counselor (K-8) AMS South Mountain (26-27 SY)

We're excited to provide the best education in the best environment to our students!

Academies of Math and Science
K-8 School Counselor
Location: 1445 West Baseline RD

                      Phoenix, AZ 85014

Position Summary

The School Counselor plays a critical role in supporting the social, emotional, and behavioral well-being of scholars so they can fully engage in AMS’s rigorous academic program. This position partners closely with campus leadership, teachers, and families to implement a comprehensive counseling program that promotes scholar success, accountability, and a positive school culture.

The ideal candidate is compassionate, firm, data-informed, and believes that every scholar can succeed when provided with the right support. At AMS, social-emotional development and scholar accountability are implemented together to ensure a safe, structured, and thriving learning environment for all.

Key Responsibilities

Scholar Support & Counseling

• Provide individual and group counseling focused on social, emotional, behavioral, and mental health needs.
• Ensure that 100% of identified at-risk scholars have a trusted adult on campus who provides consistent check-ins and support.
• Set goals with scholars and teach coping, problem-solving, and self-regulation skills that promote academic and personal success.
• Identify scholars in crisis and follow established safety and escalation protocols, including immediate notification of campus leadership.
• Maintain confidential scholar records in compliance with state and federal guidelines.

Collaboration & Campus Partnership

• Consult with parents, teachers, administrators, and community agencies regarding scholar needs.
• Partner with campus leadership to align counseling supports with PBIS and school-wide positive behavior systems.
• Support scholar transitions into high school and assist in identifying post-secondary interests and career pathways.
• Identify scholars with special needs and make appropriate recommendations, referrals, and partnerships when services extend beyond the school setting.

Professional Development & Prevention

• Develop and deliver staff training to support scholar social-emotional and mental health needs.
• Implement Character Strong as the campus social-emotional learning curriculum.
• Serve as a campus resource on social-emotional learning research, strategies, and best practices.

Campus Engagement

• Participate in school events such as recognition ceremonies, athletics, open houses, and graduation.
• Attend staff meetings, in-service trainings, and professional development sessions as related to counseling services and compliance.

Required Certifications & Education

• Arizona School Counselor Certificate
• State counseling licensure
• Master’s degree in School Guidance and Counseling or a related field

Knowledge, Skills, & Experience

• 1–3 years of experience in a school or district counseling role
• Preferred (not required): 1–3 years of teaching experience
• Knowledge of state and federal laws related to student mental health and school-based services
• Strong understanding of the five core SEL competencies
• Experience designing and delivering professional development
• Ability to plan, organize, and collaborate with cross-functional teams
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills
• Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

Join us to enjoy rewarding challenges and ongoing opportunities!