CAPS Collaborative·Ayer, Massachusetts
The school counselor provides individual and group services to deaf and hard of hearing students to support their academic, social-emotional, and transition needs. They collaborate with families, teachers, and outside agencies while participating in the IEP process and monitoring student progress.
The CAPS DHHP Elementaryl School Counselor provides services in Page Hilltop Elementary School. Counselors provide students with a variety of services that support their access to the academic curriculum, strengthen social-emotional learning and foster independence. The counselor is expected to individualize services to meet the unique needs of a cognitively and linguistically diverse group of deaf and hard of hearing learners. In addition to providing individual or group services as outlined in students' IEPs, school counselors develop positive relationships with students, families, professional colleagues, and outside agencies. A commitment to lifelong learning and a spirit of collegiality and teamwork are expected and critical to the success of the program.
Serve as students' academic advisory, monitoring academic and social progress, supporting course recommendations/requests and connection to post-secondary transition planning. Provide formal and informal career and guidance counseling services to high school students; support students' career research and identification of post-secondary training/education programs. Support students in identifying issues that are affecting or may affect the student's access to curriculum. Conduct transition assessments and write well-developed reports to be shared with families and districts; use data to identify student interest/needs to support transition planning. Implement broad based programs dealing with decision-making, conflict resolution, self-esteem, coping strategies, identity development and other issues. Support students with the college application and admissions process, including outreach to secure access accommodations. Collaborate with the CAPS DHHP Elementary/Middle School Counselor. Participate in all aspects of the IEP process including Team Meetings, contributing to the development and monitoring of IEP goals and transition plans. Provide consultation to general education teachers and CAPS educational team. Provide specially designed instruction around transition related skills as indicated by students' IEPs. Communicate regularly and frequently with parents concerning student attendance, goals, and performance. Maintain and provide accurate student data and other compliance documentation as required by state and federal laws and regulations. Create a positive and inclusive environment with an open respect for diversity. Demonstrate positive and responsive classroom management that fosters mutual respect, safety and curiosity. Demonstrate the ability to problem solve and engage in thoughtful conflict resolution. Maintain professional boundaries and ensure student/staff confidentiality. Participate and chaperone school sponsored events and activities (some evening hours required) as requested. Participate in the evaluation of prospective students. Collaborate with host-school guidance department, following their processes and procedures for course registration. Develop an effective and professional working relationship with host school administration, general education teachers and support personnel. Keeps abreast of current techniques and trends in school counseling and transition services for deaf and hard of hearing. Perform other duties as assigned. Candidate requirements: Massachusetts Educator License in Special education, Guidance, Social Work, School Adjustment Counselor, or state licensure in Rehabilitation Counseling with eligibility for MA Educator Licensure. Master's Degree in Counseling or related field Three (3) years successful experience supporting students who are deaf and hard of hearing preferred. Fluency in American Sign Language (ASL) and English Excellent writing, communication, and organizational skills Commitment to being part of a collaborative team with excellent interpersonal skills necessary for working effectively with students, teachers, support staff and families Ability to reflect on one's own practice and see challenges as opportunities for learning and improvement Basic technological skills: email, word processing, spreadsheets, shared files/folders/calendars, student information system
Candidates must hold a Master's degree in Counseling or a related field and possess a valid Massachusetts Educator License in a relevant area. Fluency in American Sign Language and English is required, along with experience supporting deaf and hard of hearing students.
Market context
Classroom teacher openings in Massachusetts are often driven by school staffing needs, student support priorities, and subject-area coverage. These roles are competitive because employers look for strong communication, classroom management, and the ability to meet state and district expectations; in this listing, the requirements and benefits are AI-summarized from the original job description, which can save candidates research time. Before applying, review the certification, schedule, and any required documentation to confirm you meet the posted qualifications.