The College and Career Readiness Counselor supports students in developing clear, actionable postsecondary plans with a strong emphasis on college readiness, Career and Technical Education (CTE) programming, dual enrollment, and workforce preparation. This role ensures students graduate with meaningful college credits, industry-recognized credentials, technical skills, and/or workforce experiences that position them for success in higher education and high-demand careers. The counselor works collaboratively with school staff, postsecondary institutions, employers, and community partners to expand equitable access to college and career pathways.
General Performance Responsibilities:
Student Advising & Postsecondary Planning
- Provide individualized counseling focused on college, career, and workforce readiness
- Assist students in developing personalized graduation and postsecondary plans aligned with academic, technical, and career goals
- Guide course selection and scheduling to maximize participation in dual enrollment, CTE pathways, advanced coursework, industry certification programs, and work-based learning opportunities
- Support students in balancing high school requirements with college-level coursework and CTE program expectations
- Help students explore career interests through career assessments, labor market information, and pathway exploration
- Advise students on postsecondary options including college, apprenticeships, technical training, and employment opportunities
Dual Enrollment Program Support
- Promote awareness of and equitable access to dual enrollment and CTE opportunities
- Advise students and families on eligibility requirements, course selection, credit transferability, and industry credential pathways
- Coordinate enrollment processes with partner colleges, technical centers, and workforce training providers
- Monitor student progress, academic performance, technical skill attainment, and credential completion
- Support students participating in internships, apprenticeships, clinical experiences, job shadowing, and other work-based learning experiences
- Educate students and families on the long-term benefits of earning college credit and industry-recognized credentials in high school
College & Career Readiness Programming
- Deliver workshops on college readiness, career exploration, and postsecondary planning
- Provide instruction in study skills, time management, and college-level expectations
- Support students with college applications, essays, and financial aid awareness
- Organize college visits, career fairs, industry tours, employer panels, CTE showcases, and postsecondary recognition events
- Integrate college and career readiness into school-wide programming
Family & Community Engagement
- Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress, postsecondary planning, dual enrollment, and CTE opportunities
- Host informational sessions on college planning, financial aid, career pathways, apprenticeships, and workforce opportunities
- Build and maintain partnerships with colleges, universities, employers, workforce development agencies, and community organizations
- Serve as a liaison between families, students, postsecondary partners, and industry representatives
Data Tracking & Program Evaluation
- Track student participation and success in dual enrollment and college readiness initiatives
- Tracking course progression, completion, endorsements and CTE data
- Monitor credit accumulation and academic progress
- Analyze data to identify equity gaps and improve access and outcomes
- Maintain accurate records of student progress and postsecondary placements for CTE students
- Use data to inform program improvements and strategic planning
Collaboration
- Work closely with school counselors, teachers, and administrators
- Coordinate with college partners and program staff
- Support integration of college and career readiness into curriculum and instruction
- Participate in school improvement efforts and student support teams
Qualifications
Education & Certification
- Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree in School Counseling, Education, or related field preferred
- Valid state certification/licensure in school counseling or related area (if required)
Experience
- Experience working with high school students strongly preferred
- Demonstrated knowledge of dual enrollment and early college programs
- Familiarity with college admissions, financial aid, and credit transfer processes
Skills & Competencies
- Strong understanding of postsecondary pathways and college-credit opportunities
- Ability to build partnerships with higher education institutions
- Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
- Commitment to expanding equitable access to advanced coursework
- Ability to analyze and use data to drive decision-making
Working Conditions
- School-based environment with regular collaboration with external partners
- Occasional evening or weekend events (e.g., parent nights, college/CTE information sessions)
- Possible travel to partner colleges, training centers, or employer sites
HR 05/2026