Student Counselor (Grades 2–8)

Job Description

About Orton Academy

At Orton Academy, we believe in unlocking every student's potential by providing structured, research-based interventions tailored to the needs of students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, and executive functioning challenges.

Orton Academy is a groundbreaking 2-8 charter school authorized by D11 in Colorado Springs, CO. We are a regional leader in dyslexia education, utilizing research-based instruction to create personalized learning experiences that enable students to overcome learning challenges. Our curriculum is rooted in the science of reading and structured literacy, ensuring that students receive the targeted support they need to succeed.

At Orton Academy, we don't just teach-we empower. Our students develop the skills, confidence, and strategies to navigate their academic journeys and beyond. Through individualized instruction, small class sizes, and a supportive learning environment, we are redefining what's possible for students with dyslexia.

Learn more about our unique approach at https://ortonk8.org

Philosophy and Vision Alignment

Our Why:

• We exist to ensure that students with dyslexia have access to high-quality, research-based instruction tailored to their unique learning needs.
• We believe that every student deserves the opportunity to develop confidence in their abilities and achieve their full potential.
• We are committed to instilling hope, igniting purpose, and empowering students to succeed academically and personally.

Our How:

• By implementing evidence-based instructional methods that prioritize the science of reading.
• By fostering an inclusive, nurturing, and student-centered learning environment.
• By equipping students with self-advocacy skills and strategies that empower them for lifelong success.

Our What:

• We are a community of educators, students, and families committed to breaking down learning barriers and championing student success.
• We provide specialized instruction tailored to the needs of students with dyslexia, ensuring they develop essential literacy and academic skills.
• We ensure that every graduate leaves Orton Academy with the skills, confidence, and knowledge to excel in their future pursuits.

Position Overview

We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Student Counselor to support students in grades 2–8. This individual will play a critical role in fostering a cohesive learning culture by supporting students' social-emotional development in alignment with the school's structured, literacy-focused environment.

The ideal candidate has experience working with students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences and understands how these challenges impact student behavior, self-esteem, and academic success. This counselor will work collaboratively with staff to ensure a consistent, supportive approach that meets the needs of our Special Education population.

Key Responsibilities

Student Support

• Provide individual and small group counseling to support students' social-emotional and behavioral needs
• Help students develop coping strategies, self-regulation skills, and resilience
• Support students in building confidence, particularly those with dyslexia and learning differences
• Respond to student concerns in a proactive, structured, and supportive manner

Cohesive School Environment

• Promote a cohesive, school-wide approach to student behavior and social-emotional support
• Reinforce consistent language, expectations, and routines aligned with the school's instructional model
• Partner with teachers to support classroom environments that are structured and supportive

Special Education & Dyslexia Support

• Collaborate with Special Education staff to support students with IEPs
• Contribute to IEP meetings when social-emotional or behavioral support is needed
• Understand the impact of dyslexia and language-based learning differences on student behavior and emotional well-being
• Help develop and implement behavior intervention plans when appropriate

Collaboration

• Work closely with teachers, administrators, and interventionists to support student success
• Participating in team meetings, problem-solving discussions, and professional development
• Provide strategies and support to staff for managing student behavior and emotional needs

Family Communication

• Maintain clear, consistent communication with families regarding student support and progress
• Partner with families to reinforce strategies that support student success at school and at home

Crisis & Prevention

• Support students in times of emotional need using appropriate counseling practices
• Help develop proactive supports and systems to prevent behavioral challenges
• Maintain appropriate documentation and follow school protocols

Qualifications

• Master's degree in School Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or related field
• Valid state license or certification as a school counselor or related role (or ability to obtain)
• Experience working with elementary and/or middle school students (grades 2–8 preferred)
• Experience working with students with IEPs and Special Education populations strongly preferred
• Knowledge of or experience supporting students with dyslexia and language-based learning differences
• Understanding of structured, school-wide systems that support consistency and student success

Preferred Attributes

• Strong understanding of how learning differences impact behavior and emotional development
• Commitment to supporting students with dyslexia and Special Education needs
• Ability to contribute to a cohesive, school-wide approach to student support
• Skilled in building relationships with students, families, and staff
• Organized, proactive, and collaborative mindset

Our Ideal Candidate

Our ideal candidate is a student-centered counselor who understands the connection between literacy challenges and social-emotional development. They are committed to supporting students with dyslexia and other learning differences and believe in a cohesive, structured approach to student support. They work collaboratively with staff and families to create a consistent, supportive environment where all students feel understood, confident, and capable of success.

Salary, Benefits, and Terms

• Salary $51,000 - $75,000 / Annual Salary
• 5 days per week, Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm (During a school year, August - May)
• Work year and hours shall be those established by Orton Academy.
• Performance evaluations will be conducted in accordance with school policy

Equal Employment Opportunity

Orton Academy seeks to comply with applicable laws prohibiting discrimination in employment based on race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, or disability.

The Board of Directors at Orton Academy has contracted with Minga Education Group (MEG) to provide employment services for all staff who work at Orton Academy. Through this partnership, MEG provides OA with employment services, a personnel system for human resources, benefits, payroll services, and access to a 401(k) plan. For naming purposes, Minga Education Group is the employer.