High School College and Career Counselor

Purpose of PositionThe College and Career Counselor fulfills the mission of DMC by leading the schools college and career readinessefforts guiding students as they discern their calling within a biblical context and cast the vision of vocation as a means ofhonoring God. Through leadership and individualized guidance this role helps students align their academic experiencesgifts and aspirations with postsecondary education and career pathways. The Counselor serves as the primary resourcefor students and families as they explore options and navigate the decisions and next steps related to life after : Full-time Salaried contracted employee (10-month and 1 week) Full-time Benefit Eligible / School YearReports To: High School Assistant PrincipalDirect Reports: NoneQualifications: Bachelors degree required; Masters degree in counseling or another area of education preferred. Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in education in a setting or related field with relevant experience incounseling or college admissions strongly preferred. Applicable Iowa Teaching or Counseling License preferred. Professing believer in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and committed to growing in a relationship with agreement with the Des Moines Christian School Statement of agreement with the Des Moines Christian School Biblical Convictions for Christian Education. Regularly attends and is actively involved in a church that affirms historic Christian orthodoxy (doctrine faithteaching practice) consistent with the DMC Statement of Faith through that churchs public creed confessioncore beliefs or statement of Profile: Committed to the mission of DMC: Equipping minds and nurturing hearts to impact the world for Christ. A teacher and learner at heart who loves students of all ages and exudes enthusiasm for shepherding the growthof children. Characterized by integrity and maintains confidentiality. Utilizes critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Demonstrates consistent spiritual leadership. Demonstrates effective verbal and written communication skills. Adapts communication style to suit different audiences. Exhibits initiative for working with minimal direct supervision. Proven ability to work in a leadership role that interacts with diverse groups including faculty staff students and Career Counselor- Job DescriptionResponsibilities:Course College and Career Advisement Manages the college guidance program for high school students. Plans and provides events or informational workshops to educate families on the college search and applicationprocess. Teaches a College and Career Readiness course for all seniors to ensure they are equipped with a resumé coverletter and interview skills. Counsels students in partnership with their grade-level school counselor to align course selection with theirlong-term college and career goals. Engages in 1:1 meetings with students and families to guide them through a biblically grounded process ofvocational discernment helping students reflect on gifts interests and calling as they consider postsecondarypathways. Collaborates with the Academics Coordinator as needed to create materials in support of college applicantsincluding transcripts references/recommendations scholarships awards. Maintains connections with colleges and admissions representatives coordinating their visits to DMC as well asplanning the college and career fair on DMCs campus. Communicates with students and parents throughout the year on college application financial aid scholarshipinformation and Oversees college readiness testing (PSAT ACT AP and aptitude instruments) and provides prep courses asapplicable. Reviews and analyzes college readiness benchmarks and academic trends and uses results to partner with HighSchool Leaders and the Counseling department for programmatic improvements. Review cognitive/aptitude/achievement tests alongside students to provide guidance in career and calling. Tracks trends and changes in college admissions standards. Utilizes and trains students on the online college and career planning platform Maia & General Responsibilities Manages the dual credit enrollment program and serves as the liaison between higher education dual enrollmentpartners and DMCS. Partners with students on the management of the NCAA and NAIA eligibility portals. Assists in the reporting on the post-high school plans of graduates and their achievement data. Assists with supervisory duties such as lunch and advisory. Collaborates with the Head of High School Assistant Principal and other School Counselors to develop themaster schedule. Attends professional conferences meetings and workshops to remain current on college admissionsfinancial aid and emerging higher education trends. Organizes career and calling speakers engaging relationships with DMC alum parents grandparents and and Career Counselor- Job DescriptionResponsibilities for All Counseling Positions Ensures the DMC mission drives all counseling program goals as well as curricular and extracurricular activities. Exhibits a love for children and a passion to see each student succeed. Integrates a biblical worldview into student interactions that examines Gods creation mans brokenness theredemption of Christ and Gods future restoration. Develops trusting productive relationships with students in order to create a safe positive and productive schoolenvironment. Possesses knowledge about cognitive social and emotional development of children. Solicits feedback from students to reflect on and improve the high school college and career program andofferings. Engages in ongoing professional growth conversations with the High School Assistant Principal. Demonstrates patience care and kindness for all children and families. Partners with parents through effective consistent communication. Serves as a collaborative productive team member who participates in professional learning communities schoolevents department meetings and other committee work that enhances the experience for faculty and students atDes Moines Christian School. All other duties as assigned.