2026-2027 School Calendar

• 169 Total Student Days
• 177 Total Staff Days
• School begins on August 25, 2026 and ends on May 27, 2027
• The district offers several extended breaks
• Thanksgiving Break (11/23/26-11/29/26)
• Winter Break (12/21/26-1/3/27)
• Spring Break (3/26/27-4/4/27)

POSITION TITLE: Middle School - School Counselor

REPORTS TO:       Building Principal

LOCATION:           Middle School

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in School Counseling or related field
• Valid Missouri certification as a School Counselor
• Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Board may find appropriate

PURPOSE STATEMENT

The Middle School Counselor implements a comprehensive school counseling program that supports the academic, career, and social-emotional development of middle school students. This position provides individual and group counseling, classroom guidance, and coordination of services to promote student success. The School Counselor collaborates with staff, families, and community resources to ensure students are supported during critical transitional years.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Counseling Program and Student Support

• Implement a comprehensive school counseling program aligned with district goals and the Missouri Comprehensive School Counseling Model
• Provide individual and small group counseling to address academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs
• Deliver classroom guidance lessons focused on academic success, career exploration, and personal development
• Support students during key transitions, including entry into middle school and preparation for high school
• Assist with crisis intervention and response as needed

Academic and Career Planning

• Support students in academic goal setting and progress monitoring
• Create course selections and scheduling processes
• Provide career exploration activities and readiness planning
• Monitor and support student attendance, behavior, and academic performance
• Collaborate with administration regarding student interventions

Assessment, Communication, and Collaboration

• Maintain accurate and confidential student records
• Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress and concerns
• Participate in parent-teacher conferences, student support teams, and multidisciplinary meetings
• Collaborate with teachers, administrators, and support staff to address student needs
• Connect families with outside resources and community agencies as appropriate

Professional Responsibilities

• Participate in professional development and school improvement initiatives
• Follow district policies, procedures, and professional standards
• Support school events and activities as assigned

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS

• Abide by state statutes, school board policies and regulations.
• Attend meetings as assigned.
• Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Maintain accurate, complete, and correct records as required by law, district policy and administrative regulation.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Building Principal

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Strong counseling, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of adolescent development and middle school student needs
• Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and staff
• Crisis response and problem-solving skills
• Organizational and time-management skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional judgment

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Ability to move throughout the classroom and school environment
• Ability to supervise students during instructional activities
• Occasional lifting of instructional materials or technology equipment
• Participation in school events or meetings outside of regular hours as needed

ATTENDANCE

• Consistent and regular attendance is an essential function of this position

FLSA Status

Exempt

Salary Grade

Certified

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:  9 month contract year

Annual contract for school year and Extended School Year, if applicable, in accordance with the provisions of  Board of Education policy on evaluation of certified staff.

Background clearance required; the results of which must be satisfactory to the District.

EVALUATION: 

Performance will be evaluated by the Building Principal in accordance with district policies and teacher evaluation procedures.

Applications will be screened as they are submitted. Job will remain posted until filled.

The Mexico Public School District is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.  NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION Our School District Prohibits discrimination and harassment against employees, students or others on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, ancestry, religion, disability by law in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in its programs and activities.