Middle School Counselor
- SCHOOL / DEPT: Middle School
- REPORTS TO: Middle School Assistant Principal
- APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 31, 2026
- Start Date: July 1, 2027
Please note that applications will be reviewed beginning in August. Candidates selected to move forward in the process can expect to hear from us in mid-to-late August.
At ISB, We All Belong
ISB is dedicated to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment where all individuals feel they belong, are seen, valued, and heard. We embrace diversity as a source of strength and are enriched through our differences. We are committed to equitable treatment for all, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion, background, identity, orientation, or ability.
We seek employees who are committed to cultivating a sense of belonging, ensuring that everyone at ISB feels safe, respected, and treated fairly.
Our Mission
We are an inspiring international community in Beijing where thinkers and leaders find their place in the world and serve others. So that learning is at its best, we build strong relationships and set high expectations together. We are committed to challenging and joyful learning with the freedom to explore.
JOB GOAL/PURPOSE
The Middle School (MS) Counselor works in collaboration with teachers, students, parents, leadership, and the community to deliver services in four main domains: 1) student support, 2) responsive services, 3) system support, and 4) SEL curriculum.
DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITES
Tier 1 Student Supports – Proactive Counseling Programs
- Develop and implement Tier 1 SEL programs as identified by the divisional team and Student Support services
- Collaborate with admin and faculty to support SEL during content instruction and in the implementation of the SEL curriculum
- Facilitate workshops and informational sessions for parents, staff, and faculty to address the needs of the school community and to reflect the school SEL curriculum
- Promote awareness of the unique nature of life within the international community and seek opportunities to support students and families
- Support the transition of new students, departing students, and transitions between school sections and grades
- Promote inclusion, equity, and access for all students
- Administer and follow up on data related to students’ social-emotional wellbeing and skills
- Serve as case manager and point of contact for students with identified SEL needs
- Collaborate with student support services and administration to ensure wrap around support for students with multiple needs
- Teach and reinforce strategies that promote prosocial behaviors
- Review and support behavior intervention plans
- Consult with parents, teachers, leadership, and community agencies about strategies to support students and families
- Conduct temporary, proactive individual and small group sessions (counseling and SEL) outside and inside the classroom to support student development or in response to identified needs
- Provide counseling and support (short-term and temporary in nature) to students, families, faculty, and staff facing emergency situations
- Refer students requiring more intensive Tier-3 support to external partners and agencies on ISB referral list
- Review and support student support plans (SSPs) and serve as case manager for students as assigned
Tier 2/3 Student Supports
Other responsibilities
- Build relationships with the MS student body through involvement in student Clubs and activities
- Serve as a member of the divisional child protection team
- Remain current with best practice in school counselling and education; Uphold ASCA/ISCA ethical and professional standards
- Engage in bi-weekly supervision sessions
- Advocate for every student, ensuring approach with students, colleagues, and the community supports multiple forms of diversity
- Contribute to the school’s student support referral process within the scope and practice of the school counseling program
- Actively participate in other school programs (i.e. leadership teams, parent teacher associations, committees, etc.) and promote positive Dragon Spirit in ISB and the Middle School
Perform any other duties as assigned by the MS Assistant Principal, MS Principal or the Head of School.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
- Master’s Degree and a valid certification (or the substantial equivalent) in school counseling
- Minimum two years of experience serving as a school counselor
- Demonstrated commitment to child safeguarding and supporting DEI in a diverse community
- A genuine commitment to the wellbeing, belonging, and success of young adolescents
- Experience managing and preventing SEL issues through peer mediation, restorative practices, and targeted interventions
- Certification in DEI or extensive experience and professional development in successfully navigating incidents of identity-based harm in a school
- An aptitude for building and maintaining positive relationships with students, colleagues, and parents
- Superior organizational strategies, incident documentation skills, follow-through, and resilience in solving problems
COMPETENCIES AND EXPERIENCE PREFERRED
- Prior international school experience
- Prior experience and genuine interest in supporting Middle School students, with a deep knowledge of the unique needs of this age group
- Resilience, positivity, and a growth mindset toward resolving problems and collaboration
- Ability to effectively communicate and present to large audiences Familiarity with Microsoft 365 digital suite
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:
- Cover Letter
- CV
- Teaching video link: Applicants are strongly encouraged to prepare a teaching video that showcases instructional abilities in their subject area. (Please note that if selected for an interview, we may request the video at a later stage.)
- References: We require contact information for three confidential references, with at least two being supervisory references from your current or previous employment.