Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Specialist

Position Overview

Woodstock Union High School is seeking a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Specialist who is committed to building strong relationships with students and ensuring that every student is supported regulated and ready to learn.

Working directly under the supervision of the Assistant Principal this role is central to the daily functioning of the school. The SEL Specialist is a visible responsive and solutions-oriented presence who provides real-time support to students and staff helps maintain consistency across the building and ensures that student support systems operate effectively.

This position blends hands-on student support school operations family communication and compliance responsibilities including Harassment Hazing and Bullying (HHB) investigations.

Core Responsibilities

Student Support & Intervention

• Provide immediate in-the-moment support to students experiencing social emotional or behavioral challenges
• Facilitate de-escalation conflict resolution and restorative conversations
• Support student re-entry following ISS ASP or suspension with clear plans and follow-through
• Build strong relationships with students requiring Tier II and Tier III supports

Daily School Operations (In Partnership with the AP)

• Respond to student needs referred by teachers staff or administration
• Support supervision during arrival lunch/ARE transitions and dismissal
• Help maintain consistent behavioral expectations across classrooms and common spaces
• Partner with the Assistant Principal to ensure discipline systems are implemented with fidelity

HHB Investigations & Compliance

• Conduct and support Harassment Hazing and Bullying (HHB) investigations under the direction of the Assistant Principal
• Gather statements document findings and maintain accurate timely records
• Ensure all investigations align with district policy and Vermont state requirements
• Maintain strict confidentiality and professionalism
• Support follow-up actions including restorative practices and student safety planning

Family Communication & Collaboration

• Communicate with parents/guardians regarding student concerns supports and follow-up actions as directed by the AP
• Participate in family meetings to support student success and re-entry planning
• Serve as a consistent and professional point of contact for student-related concerns
• Collaborate with counselors case managers teachers and administration to align supports

Data Documentation & MTSS

• Maintain clear documentation of student interactions interventions and outcomes
• Track behavior patterns and escalation triggers to inform next steps
• Contribute to MTSS and student support team meetings with relevant data and insight

SEL Skill Development

• Support implementation of school-wide SEL practices and routines
• Facilitate small groups or targeted skill-building sessions as needed
• Reinforce student development in self-regulation relationship skills and responsible decision-making

What Success Looks Like

• Students are supported quickly and effectively minimizing disruption to learning
• Teachers feel supported and are not managing behavioral challenges in isolation
• HHB concerns are addressed promptly thoroughly and in compliance with policy
• Families receive clear timely and professional communication
• School systems are consistent predictable and aligned
• The school runs smoothly day-to-day with fewer escalations and stronger student relationships

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree required; Masters degree in education counseling social work or related field preferred
• Vermont Educators License with proper endorsement
• Experience working with adolescents in a school or youth-centered setting
• Demonstrated ability to manage sensitive situations including investigations and family communication
• Strong communication de-escalation and problem-solving skills
• Experience with restorative practices trauma-informed approaches or SEL frameworks preferred

Preferred Skills & Attributes

• Calm steady and solutions-oriented under pressure
• Strong judgment and ability to act in real time
• High emotional intelligence and relationship-building skills
• Organized with strong documentation habits
• Commitment to equity inclusion and student-centered practices
• Team-oriented flexible and proactive

Work Year & Schedule

• School-year position
• Schedule aligned with student day and supervision needs

Additional Information

This position is distinct from a school counselor role. The SEL Specialist is a highly visible hands-on practitioner focused on immediate support proactive intervention and the consistent implementation of schoolwide systems.

Required Experience:

IC