Portland Public Schools: 31n Funded District Wide Counselor
Portland Public Schools is welcoming applicants for a Counselor position.
General Description: Provides district wide counseling support to students and staff. This position reports to the Portland Middle School Principal but is considered a district wide position.
The desired candidate would possess the following attributes:
Exceptional communication, analysis, interpersonal, and organizational skills
Ability to handle complex and stressful issues or situations with sound judgment, common sense, and a calm demeanor
Ability to collect and maintain student data in a confidential manner
Impeccable character, a good sense of humor, and compassion for students, families, and staff
Ability to develop and sustain positive working relationships with students, staff, parents, and district colleagues
Willingness to contribute to a safe school climate of high expectations and strong collaboration, high staff and student morale, and positive community involvement
Key Responsibilities:
Grade Level Transition Coordination:
Develop and implement comprehensive transition plans for students advancing between critical grade levels (ex. Oakwood to Westwood, Westwood to MS, MS to HS)
Collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to ensure seamless transitions that address academic, emotional and social needs.
Organize and lead orientation programs, school tours, and informational sessions for students and families.
Collaboration and Professional Development:
Work closely with district leaders, school counselors, and educators to align transitions and support programs with district goals.
Stay updated on best practices and innovations in school counseling and transition planning between grade levels.
Provide training and resources to staff on effective student support and grade level transition strategies.
Blue Envelope Response and Training:
Organize, plan and execute Blue Envelope (Corewell Health) training and events for staff.
Engage with staff, students and families to create personalized plans in response to mental health support.
Respond to Blue Envelope events (district wide) in the event that the building Counselor is not available. Be available for any and all needs across the district pertaining to a Blue Envelope event.
Student Support Services:
Provide individual and group counseling to address students’ social and emotional needs.
Identify at-risk students and implement intervention plans in collaboration with other school staff.
Act as a resource for teachers and parents to support student success.
Eligible candidates must meet the following qualifications:
Must meet one of the following criteria (this position is 31n grant funded):
A psychiatrist;
A licensed master’s level psychologist;
A limited licensed master’s level psychologist, under the supervision of a licensed master’s level psychologist;
A MDE credentialed master’s level school psychologist;
A licensed master’s level marriage and family therapist;
A licensed master’s level professional counselor;
A limited licensed master’s level professional counselor, under the supervision of a licensed master’s level professional counselor;
A licensed master’s level social worker;
A licensed master’s level school social worker;
A limited licensed master’s level social worker, under the supervision of a licensed master’s level social worker
Also,
Be trained by Corewell Health in Blue Envelope response, or be willing to be trained upon hire and have
Experience coordinating district wide initiatives or large-scale student programs
Position Details:
Title: District Wide Counselor
Reports to: Portland Middle School Principal
Calendar: As per District Calendar and PEA contract
Compensation: In accordance with PEA contract (this position is 31n grant funded)
Posting date: September 17, 2025
Application deadline: October 3, 2025
Application Process:
Applicants for the position should email the following documents to [email protected] or apply online at https://www.applitrack.com/Portlandk12/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Student+Support+Services
Letter of interest detailing the manner in which the candidate meets the qualifications and desired attributes for the position, addressed to Mrs. Leanna Davis.
A current resume with reference contact information
Copies of all university transcripts
Copies of credentials
Two current (within the last two years) letters of recommendation
Questions about the position or the district can be sent to Leanna Davis, Portland Middle School
No person applying for employment at Portland Public Schools shall, on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, (including sexual orientation and transgender identity), disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information or any other legally protected category, (collectively, "Protected Classes"), in its programs and activities, including employment opportunities. We are an equal opportunity employer.
