School Counselor- 1.0 FTE - Vacancy ID: 239237

Position: School Counselor

Posting Date: June 12, 2025

Closing Date: June 30, 2025

Start Date: August 1, 2025

Location: McFarland Primary School

Compensation: Based on experience

Required Certification: WI DPI License (54) School Counselor

Ideal decision 2 weeks after the closing date 

Meeting the Needs of Every Learner, Every Day

McFarland School District is seeking highly dynamic candidates to fill an opening for a School Counselor at McFarland Primary School (MPS) beginning in the 2025-26 school year.  We aspire to hire individuals who can help us work toward our mission of meeting the needs of every learner, every day, and our vision of being an equitable and inclusive community committed to student belonging, achievement, and growth. 

 What Your Day Will Look Like:

At McFarland Primary School (MPS), the Student Services team includes two School Counselors, one School Psychologist, and one School Social Worker. As a School Counselor, you will play a vital role in supporting school-wide social-emotional and behavioral needs through direct student support and collaboration with staff.Your daily work will include supporting students through individual counseling, small groups, classroom instruction, and school-wide initiatives. You will respond to emerging student needs, contribute to a positive and inclusive school climate, collaborate with colleagues to develop and implement targeted interventions, and help ensure that every child receives the care and support they need to grow and thrive.

 Our Ideal Candidate: 

We’re seeking a compassionate, knowledgeable, and student-centered professional who brings both technical skill and relational strength to their role. The ideal candidate:

• Is a collaborative, flexible, and proactive problem-solver with strong communication and organizational skills
• Builds positive, trusting relationships with students, families, and staff across the school community
• Demonstrates relational leadership and motivates and inspires others while remaining grounded, reflective, and committed to ongoing learning
• Leads with empathy and professionalism; is skilled in de-escalation, conflict resolution, and trauma-sensitive practices
• Is organized, detail-oriented, and technologically proficient; communicates effectively both in writing and verbally
• Advocates for equitable services, culturally responsive practices, and inclusive opportunities for all students and families
• Has experience with Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) and is capable of leading SEL instruction for students and professional development for staff
• Supports teachers in fostering students’ social-emotional competencies and co-develops school-wide positive behavior systems
• Brings leadership experience with PBIS and Wisconsin’s Equitable Multi-Level Systems of Support (eMLSS)
• Has experience designing and implementing interventions, such as small group Social Academic Instructional Groups (SAIG)
• Understands typical child behavior development, as well as mental health needs and community-based support options
• Possesses knowledge of theories and research-based practices used to design and deliver effective interventions for students and families
• Can participate in and help lead structured student problem-solving processes
• Is comfortable serving as the Local Education Agency (LEA) representative in IEP meetings and understands special education procedures
• Is capable of interpreting research and applying evidence-based practices to support student learning and well-being
• Is aware of and can connect families to relevant community resources
• Is confident in designing and delivering professional development and family engagement opportunities

 Why People Stay:

Through one-on-one interviews, McFarland teachers say making deep connections with colleagues (including administrators) and students helps them feel supported in McFarland.  Teachers who have worked in other districts noted how McFarland class sizes are lower, special education caseloads are smaller, team budgets are larger, and they are glad to work in a community that supports schools, has a positive climate, and a school board that respects teachers.  We have a full-time librarian, social worker, school psychologist, and at least one school counselor in each building. 

 The District:

The McFarland School District stands out as one of the top academic districts in Dane County and Wisconsin, offering a strong educational foundation that families and educators are proud of. With an average enrollment of 2,100 to 2,400 students, McFarland is large enough to provide a comprehensive EC-12 academic and co-curricular program, yet small enough to focus on each student's unique needs. Known statewide for its welcoming atmosphere and student-centered approach, McFarland consistently attracts top-quality staff who enhance our vibrant, thriving community.

 This summary highlights the key components of our benefits offerings, including health insurance, retirement plans, and other valuable benefit options. We take pride in fostering an environment where you can thrive both personally and professionally, ensuring that your contributions to our students and community are supported every step of the way.

 The Schools:

For more information, visit our school websites:

• McFarland Primary School (K-2) click here. 
• Waubesa Intermediate School (3-5) click here. 
• Indian Mound Middle School (6-8) click here. 
• McFarland High  School (9-12) click here. 

 How to apply: Send an application via WECAN(https://wecan.education.wisc.edu), including a letter of application, resume, letters of reference, and transcript, and we’d welcome the opportunity to consider your application. 

 HIRING AUTHORITIES: Greg Nelson, Principal, 6009 Johnson Street, McFarland, WI 53558

                                        Lauren Arango, Director of Student Services, 5101 Farwell Street, McFarland, WI 53558

  TITLE IX – COMPLIANCE

McFarland School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, creed, pregnancy, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation (including transgender status, change of sex or gender identity), English language proficiency, age, military status, or physical, mental, emotional or learning disability in its education programs or in employment. Inquiries regarding compliance with Title IX may be directed to: SCHOOL DISTRICT OF MCFARLAND 5101 Farwell Street McFarland, WI 53558, or to the Director of the Office of Civil Rights, Dept. of Health, Education & Welfare, Washington DC