NATOMAS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT COUNSELOR Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job. DEFINITION To provide professional learning and behavior counseling to facilitate and encourage the learning and development of students in the Natomas Unified School District. SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives general direction from assigned Principal. ESSENTIAL FUNCTION STATEMENTS--Essential responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: Essential Functions: 1. Consult with parents, school, and community resources, and students, in helping to develop the best educational programs for students. 2. Make verbal and written reports that organize information about individual pupils. 3. Recommend appropriate educational and psychological referral for exceptional students, including determination of eligibility for the placement of pupils in special programs or classes. 4. Participate in planning, executing, and assessing programs of education and re-education for pupils; participate in IEP meetings and related meetings to discuss student behavior. 5. Assist in developing the best possible learning programs for all students and in evaluating the product of the educational effort. 6. Provide appropriate consultive services to assist school staff members to better understand behavior and learning patterns of students, and recommend and promote and improved climate for learning. 7. Assess intellectual and education characteristics of students, including the administration of individual tests; assist in planning, evaluating, and interpreting group testing programs. 8. Study and assist the individual pupil, using extensive and intensive counseling techniques; gather basic information necessary for the understanding of the pupil; recommend appropriate actions. 9. Participate in professional group meetings; stay abreast of changes and new developments in counseling, child psychology, or a related field. Marginal Functions: 1. Attend a variety of meetings related to student needs; provide information and assistance. 2. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required. QUALIFICATIONS Knowledge of: Child development. Counseling techniques. Alternative learning methods and techniques. Psychological and sociological assessment methods and techniques. Child learning behaviors and patterns. Current literature and new developments in counseling and child psychology. Ability to: Assess student learning behaviors and determine appropriate placement. Work effectively with students, teachers and parents. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Prepare clear and concise reports. Maintain mental capacity which allows the capability of: ‒ Making sound decisions ‒ Demonstrating intellectual capabilities. Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed for: ‒ Making observations ‒ Communicating with others ‒ Reading and writing ‒ Operating assigned equipment and vehicles. Experience and Training Guidelines Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: Experience: Professional counseling experience preferably in a public school setting working with students. Training: A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in psychology, child development, or a related field, plus designated service credential. A Master’s degree is desirable. License or Certificate Possession of a California Pupil Personnel Services Credential with School Counseling authorization, issued by the State of California. WORKING CONDITIONS Environmental Conditions: Office environment. Physical Conditions: Essential and marginal functions may require maintaining a physical condition necessary for sitting for prolonged periods of time.