Counselor - Special Education

ROLE AND PURPOSE:

• The primary purpose of the special education counselor is to provide student and parent counseling, individually and in groups, concerning problems related to the student's disability. The counselor serves as liaison between parents, school, and community agencies and assists in the collection and analysis of appraisal data pertaining to the educational needs of the students. The counselor shall coordinate special education counseling with the rest of the school guidance program and assist administrators as requested.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

• Master's Degree from an accredited college or university
• Valid Texas Counselor's Certificate required

Preferred:

• Two years successful classroom teaching experience in Special Education preferred
• Special Education Teacher Certification

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Participate with the educational diagnostician, program coordinator, administrators, teachers, and building counselors as needed.
• Assess students with disabilities to determine eligibility for counseling services and present assessment information to the ARD committee.
• Counsel students individually and/or in group. Consult with professional staff and/or parents. Counsel as requested with student in crisis situations.
• Make referrals to outside agencies and act as a liaison with the student, parent and school.
• Assist and support special education and regular teachers by helping manage specialized behavior plans/programs.
• Assist teachers with development of individual behavior intervention plans.
• Attend ARD meetings as needed.
• Assist in the development of graduation plans as needed.
• Plan and conduct parent information sessions regarding needs of students.

Performs any other duties as assigned by the Director of Special Education.