School Counselor | Cedar Rapids Prep

School Counselor | Cedar Rapids Prep

About Cedar Rapids Prep

Cedar Rapids Prep is a tuition-free, college-preparatory school that opened in August 2025, initially serving 6th, 7th, and 8th grades, with plans to expand through 12th grade. The school emphasizes academic excellence, leadership, and personal ownership, providing a supportive community where students are paired with dedicated advisors to ensure their success. Cedar Rapids Prep offers a private school experience without the cost, featuring top-notch facilities, student uniforms, and rigorous academics. As part of the Opportunity Education Network, the school aims to empower students to lead ambitious and purpose-driven lives.

About the Role: School Counselor

The School Counselor supports the academic, social-emotional, and career development of all students through a comprehensive, data-driven counseling program. This role aligns with the framework established by the American School Counselor Association and adheres to Iowa state standards and district goals.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Student Support & Counseling

• Provide individual and small-group counseling to address academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs
• Respond to crisis situations and support student safety and well-being
• Assist students in developing self-awareness, coping skills, and resilience

Academic Planning

• Guide students in course selection and academic goal-setting
• Monitor student progress and collaborate with staff to support achievement
• Support transitions (e.g., elementary to middle, middle to high school, postsecondary planning)

Collaboration & Consultation

• Work closely with teachers, administrators, and families to support student success
• Participate in multidisciplinary teams (e.g., MTSS, IEP, 504 plans)
• Connect students and families to community resources

Program Development & Implementation

• Design and deliver a comprehensive school counseling program aligned with American School Counselor Association standards
• Use data to identify student needs and evaluate program effectiveness
• Deliver classroom guidance lessons on topics such as social-emotional learning, bullying prevention, and career readiness

Qualifications

Required:

• Master’s degree in School Counseling or related field
• Valid Iowa School Counselor license issued by the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners
• Knowledge of child development, counseling practices, and educational systems

Preferred:

• Previous experience in a school setting
• Familiarity with ASCA National Model
• Experience with data-driven program design

Ideal Candidate Traits

• Deep belief in all students’ potential and a commitment to holding high academic and behavioral expectations
• A growth mindset, constantly seeking to refine and improve support skills
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues
• Adaptability and excitement about being part of a founding team at a new school
• Readiness to go above and beyond, including putting in extra time in and outside of your role, to build Cedar Rapid’s premier college prep school

Compensation & Benefits

• Retirement Plan: Enrollment in the Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System (IPERS)
• Competitive Salary: Salary is budgeted within a range that aligns with local district expectations

Non-Discrimination Statement

Opportunity Education is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are valued and respected.