<p>The Director of Guidance and Student Services (DGSS) plays a vital role in fostering the academic, social, and emotional success of students in Grades 7-12. This individual must be an empathetic, highly organized leader capable of maintaining composure in challenging situations and communicating effectively with all stakeholders. The DGSS will lead and manage comprehensive student support systems, including academic counseling, social-emotional development, mental health services, discipline, and restorative practices. This position requires collaboration with students, families, staff, and community partners to ensure equitable access to high-quality, developmentally appropriate support services.</p> <p>Key Responsibilities Guidance and Counseling Program Leadership</p> <ul> <li>Direct and supervise a comprehensive Grades 7-12 guidance and counseling program aligned with MASCA models. </li><li>Supervise and evaluate student support staff, including counselors, social workers, psychologists, and other relevant personnel. </li><li>Oversee all aspects of student counseling: academic, personal/social, college, and career. </li><li>Plan and implement guidance-related programming, including college fairs, financial aid events, and career workshops. </li><li>Manage post-secondary planning efforts and the college admissions process. </li><li>Develop and maintain the Program of Studies for Grades 7-12. </li><li>Supervise student transitions between Grades 6-7, 8-9, and post-graduation. </li><li>Coordinate structured lessons and advisory programming to meet students' developmental needs. </li><li>Serve as the 504 Coordinator for Grades 7-12 by overseeing the effective implementation of 504 plans, while supporting counselors in the coordination and facilitation of 504 meetings. </li><li>Organize and facilitate the Advisory Council to provide feedback on guidance services. </li></ul> <p>Student Services & Support Systems</p> <ul> <li>Provide leadership in developing Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) frameworks. </li><li>Oversee implementation of policies related to attendance, student support services, 504/SST compliance, mental health, and violence/suicide prevention. </li><li>Develop and analyze reports on academic, behavioral, and social-emotional indicators to assess impact. </li><li>Serve as liaison for Tier 2 and Tier 3 intervention-based teams. </li><li>Coordinate the school's student scholarship programs. </li></ul> <p>Discipline and School Climate</p> <ul> <li>Support the implementation and enforcement of school policies related to student conduct, discipline, safety, and attendance in partnership with the administrative team. </li><li>Monitor and maintain a positive school climate in collaboration with faculty and students. </li><li>Support family and community engagement efforts. </li></ul> <p>Operations and School Administration</p> <ul> <li>Assist the Administrative Team with the daily operations of the school building, ensuring smooth transitions, addressing immediate needs, and maintaining a positive, orderly atmosphere for students and staff. </li><li>Provide leadership in special education by chairing IEP meetings, ensuring compliance with regulations, and facilitating meaningful collaboration among team members. </li><li>Provide leadership during school-wide events and support general supervision. </li></ul>