Job Description

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION:

Provides counseling services to students who are English Learners (EL) and Emergent Multilingual Learners (EMLs) in grades Pre-K through 12. Leads crisis intervention and counseling for EL students and other students' district wide as needed. Leads and provides support, training and information to teachers, school staff and administration in matters related to crisis intervention, restorative justice, mental health and counseling for EL/EML students, trauma-informed practices, cultural sensitivity and needs of EL/EML students and their families. ETC's help EL students understand and adjust to the American school and community, acquire the socio-cultural skills and develop positive self-concept that are necessary to succeed in MCPS and in American society. Help students gain a greater understanding of their cultural origin and identity as well as their changing role within the family. Determine students' availability for learning by assessing post-traumatic stress they may be suffering due to exposure to traumatic events in their childhood as well as current family reunification issues. Assist families and school staff with understanding the impact of acculturation in the lives of the students. ETC's provide these services in the native language of the student, operating from a cross-cultural perspective while demonstrating a heightened sensitivity and respect toward complex backgrounds.

CERTIFICATE LICENSE:

None

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:

Thorough knowledge of crisis intervention techniques and procedures. Knowledge of state laws and reporting procedures for child abuse and neglect. Native or native-like proficiency in a language other than English, as well as proficiency in English. Strong understanding and knowledge of customs, norms, as well as protocols of the American culture and other cultures. Knowledge and sensitivity toward immigrant issues. Thorough knowledge of resources serving the language minority communities. Ability to establish rapport with students from other races and cultures. Ability to work with parents and staff from other cultures and bridge cultural gaps between families and the school community. Demonstrate cultural sensitivity to families views regarding mental health services. Ability to inform and help culturally diverse families understand the benefits of community mental health services and assist them in obtaining services and needed support. Skilled in alternative counseling techniques other than traditional Western approaches and the ability to quickly learn and implement new methods of counseling and ways to engage EL/EML students. Well versed in all developmental stages within a cultural context. Knowledge of all ES, MS, and HS school processes ranging from social skills, parenting, conferences, graduation requirements, college scholarships, financial aid and community resources. Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with all entities in the schools. Ability to handle all types of situations including crisis intervention which includes suicide prevention and conflict resolution. Proficient in computer applications. Demonstrate strong time management skills. Good oral and written communications skills. Ability to make presentations in front of large audiences. Bilingual/bicultural skills necessary. Knowledge of the seven core competencies of the Supporting Services Professional Growth System (SSPGS).

EDUCATION, TRAINING, and EXPERIENCE:

Master's degree required. Degree major in counseling, psychology, social work or related mental health field with specific training in cross-cultural counseling techniques. Experience with crisis intervention techniques and procedures. Considerable experience working directly with school-age children from other cultures and their families. Other combinations of applicable education, training, and experience equivalent to a master's degree, which provide the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform effectively in the position, may be considered.