Reporting to the Manager of Student Support Services, the KIPP KC High School Counselor plays a critical role in supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally as they navigate their high school journey and prepare for postsecondary opportunities. The counselor will deliver a comprehensive, identity-affirming school counseling program that includes academic advising, SEL skill-building, career exploration, and responsive support.
This role includes four core areas of responsibility:
Academic Counseling
Social-Emotional Learning
Responsive Services
Systems-Level Support
Key Responsibilities
Academic Counseling & Postsecondary Planning
Guide students in academic planning, course selection, and graduation requirement tracking.
Ensure 100% of students develop and update their Individual Career and Academic Plan (ICAP).
Provide targeted support to students at risk of falling behind in credits or off-track for graduation.
Advise on dual credit/enrollment options, ACT/SAT prep, and summer learning opportunities.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and Direct Services
Deliver SEL lessons and small group counseling aligned to the comprehensive counseling program and KIPP KC鈥檚 values.
Offer direct support for student well-being and identity development, including topics such as mental health, peer relationships, time management, and stress.
Keep detailed records of sessions and progress, using data to inform supports and programming.
Collaborate with educators to support a culturally responsive and trauma-informed classroom culture.
Responsive Services
Provide immediate and short-term individual or group counseling in response to student needs.
Participate in crisis response and safety planning for students in need of urgent support.
Facilitate peer mediation and conflict resolution processes.
Refer students and families to appropriate internal and community-based resources when necessary.
Systems-Level Collaboration
Participate in school-wide support teams, including IEP, 504, MTSS, CARE, and Student of Concern meetings.
Collaborate with teachers, deans, and leaders to identify trends in student behavior, academics, and wellness.
Support implementation of restorative practices and trauma-informed strategies across campus.
Organize and lead school-wide programming, such as Career Day, Mental Health Awareness events, and parent workshops.