School Counselor

Elementary School Counselor: Architect of Belonging
Role Summary
As a School Counselor, you will provide a comprehensive, developmental program that addresses the social, emotional, and academic needs of students in their most formative years. Working in a student-centered environment, you will lead classroom "circles" or guidance lessons, provide small-group and individual support, and act as a vital bridge between home and school. You will work collaboratively with teachers and families to ensure that every child feels seen, safe, and supported as they begin their educational journey.
Why Youll Succeed (Qualifications)

• Certified Professional: Valid Missouri Certification in School Counseling (K-8 or K-12) .
• Degree Requirements: Masters Degree in School Counseling or a related field, required.
• Early Childhood Expert: You have a deep understanding of child development and know how to explain complex emotions using language a 6-year-old understands.
• Equity Champion: You are committed to culturally responsive support, ensuring every family feels a sense of belonging in our school community.
• Relational Expert: You thrive on building trust with little ones and can partner effectively with parents and guardians to support the "whole child."

Your Impact (Key Duties)

• Foundational Guidance: Deliver engaging classroom lessons on topics like empathy, self-regulation, friendship, and personal safety.
• Responsive Services: Provide immediate support for students experiencing big emotions, using trauma-informed and de-escalation strategies.
• Small Group Leadership: Facilitate small groups focused on social skills, changing families, or building resilience.
• Family Partnership: Act as a resource for families, connecting them with community services and providing strategies for success at home.
• Collaborative Advocacy: Work closely with teachers to implement positive behavior supports and create a classroom climate where every student can thrive.

Your Leadership Partners

• Primary Support: Building Principal
• District Support: Director of Student Support Services and Elementary Lead Counselors

The Logistics of Your Success

• Classification: Exempt, Certified Staff (Shares the same employment terms as a Certified Teacher).
• Work Year: 10-Month Academic Calendar (Typically includes additional "Counselor Days" per district contract).
• Salary: Based on the Teacher Salary Schedule, determined by experience and Masters level education.
• Benefits: Full-time Eligibility (Medical, Dental, Vision, & PSRS/PEERS Retirement).

The FFSD Advantage: Total Rewards & Support
We don't just hire counselors; we invest in the heart of our schools.

• Early Childhood Resources: Access to play-therapy tools, social-emotional curricula (like Second Step), and dedicated counseling spaces.
• Professional Growth: Tuition reimbursement and district-provided PD focused on Conscious Discipline, Play Therapy, and Restorative Practices.
• Health & Heart: 100% district-paid medical, dental, and vision plans, plus access to our Ferg-Flor Care district health clinic.
• Mentorship for Success: New elementary counselors are paired with veteran mentors who specialize in early childhood support within FFSD.

About Our Schools
The Ferguson-Florissant School District is a community-centered district in suburban St. Louis. We believe that equity begins in Kindergarten. From our play-based initiatives to our focus on the whole child, we provide an environment where every scholar is prepared for a lifetime of success.