The Siena School is one of the nation's leading independent schools serving bright, college-bound students with mild to moderate language-based learning differences, such as dyslexia (). At The Siena School, teachers encourage students' creative expression, incorporate student interest and passions, and develop critical thinking by creating a vibrant, student-centered environment that supports the learning and personal growth of each student. Siena faculty and staff work collaboratively with students, parents, and professionals to create a nurturing but rigorous learning environment. We know our children well and engage them on a daily basis in exciting, intellectual dialogue. Through individualized, multisensory instruction, students develop critical thinking skills and acquire the tools and strategies needed to become successful and independent learners. A positive learning experience inspires our students to have confidence in themselves and their abilities.
Job Summary The Siena School in Northern Virginia seeks a culturally competent, caring, and experienced school counselor to join a dynamic and creative team. As a school committed to academic excellence, educational innovation, and social justice, the School Counselor will serve as a key member of the Guidance Team in supporting the social-emotional well-being of all students. The School Counselor is responsible for designing and delivering social-emotional learning through classroom lessons, school-wide initiatives, consultation with staff, and parent workshops. The Counselor will also meet with students in individual and small group settings. This position will be full-time.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities Policies and Record-keeping With administration, creates and maintains policies for the counseling department Creates and maintains confidential records Counseling Support The counselor serves as the main mental wellness liaison for students, parents, teachers, administrators, and outside clinicians Meets regularly with the Head of School and other members of the Guidance Team to communicate student progress and/or concerns Serves as a resource for parents, faculty, and administration in addressing concerns pertaining to students Provides support for the community in response to crisis situations Provides 1:1 counseling support to students on a short-term and drop-in basis Makes appropriate referrals to families for specialized support services Provides crisis intervention and assessment as needed Actively engages and supports the School's commitment to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community Runs ongoing groups for students on issues related to social-emotional and mental wellness (i.e. friendship, stress management, etc.) Partners with teachers to develop strategies for specific students and conduct student observations as necessary Provides consultation to teachers and other school personnel regarding student needs and supports Consults with outside therapists to support individual students and families Programming Develops and implements schoolwide programming on topics related to social-emotional and mental health Creates and co-leads a health curriculum that addresses social-emotional well-being, drugs, alcohol, body image, sexual education, anxiety, wellness, and other relevant topics Provides professional development to staff about topics of mental health and social-emotional wellbeing Organizes and facilitates regular discussions with parents around pertinent topics Develops programming that responds to the needs of the school community Other Duties Support the school's mission and culture, promoting a positive, inclusive school climate Through a restorative justice lens, support student adherence to school expectations Establish and maintain good relationships with varying stakeholders Communicate effectively and in a timely manner with families Communicate with faculty and staff at the other campuses as needed Engage in duties as assigned Attend weekly campus and cross-campus meetings Attend after school events as needed Engage with stakeholders via Zoom in synchronous and asynchronous models as needed Other duties as assigned This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee and is subject to change based on the needs of the school.
Please note that COVID-19 vaccination is a requirement to work at The Siena School. Submit resume and cover letter to .
Essential Skills and Qualification Professional Mental Health/Counseling or School Counseling Degree Professional mental health license Experience and comfort with working in a diverse environment Experience working with a variety of age groups from elementary through high school Ability to work with a dynamic and engaging staff and school community Ability to effectively listen, respond, and present information to students, parents/guardians, faculty and staff. Ability to take initiative and demonstrate strong organizational and interpersonal skills. Ability to maintain sensitive information in the strictest of confidence, exercising absolute discretion and professionalism Knowledge of child and adolescent development Strong interpersonal and group facilitation skills to work effectively as a team player About The Siena School
The Siena School ( has two campuses, one in Oakton, VA, which opened in fall, 2021, and one in Silver Spring, Maryland, which is in its 17th year. Both campuses are experiencing expanding enrollment. The Siena School has become a national leader in educating bright, college-bound students with mild to moderate language-based learning differences. Siena enrolls approximately 40% students of color. The school focuses on the professional development of its staff who are regularly published and have presented at national and international conferences, including the NAIS Annual Conference. Siena is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. The Siena School is committed to equitable hiring practices, and enthusiastically encourages professionals of all backgrounds to apply.The Siena School is committed to equitable hiring practices, and enthusiastically encourages professionals of all backgrounds to apply.
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