Academic Counselor, K-12

About Stellar Virtual

Stellar Virtual was founded in 2019 with one school in Texas. We serve parents of K-12 students, unhappy with their current school or need an at-home/flexible learning environment. Today, Stellar Virtual spans across three states currently, Arizona, Indiana, and Texas, with developing programs being introduced in new states over the next few years. Stellar Virtual is committed to going above and beyond for our virtual families. 

Our Mission

Empowering Families. Unleashing Potential. 

Our Core Values

At Stellar Virtual, we are guided by five core values. For us, these values are more than just something in an employee handbook that you’ll only hear about during orientation. These values are the pillars by which we operate all aspects of our organization. We talk about them often, and we expect that every one of our employees not only talks about our core values but also acts upon them.

So, it’s important to us that anyone who joins Stellar embraces our core values.

• Kids First, Always: We make student-centered decisions and always do what's best for our kids.
• Respect: We assume the best of others and treat others the way we want to be treated.
• Create, Communicate, Collaborate: We create together, communicate openly, and work as a team to deliver more than we ever could individually
• Make Your Motion Matter: We work deliberately, efficiently, and with a sense of purpose to achieve great results.
• Go the Extra Mile to Deliver a Stellar Customer Experience: We recognize that every interaction, no matter how small or unrelated it may seem, is an opportunity to build trust and goodwill with our customers.

Our Promise
Empowering families with the choice of a high-quality virtual school with dedicated staff focused on student outcomes and an exceptional customer experience, our programs will enable students to thrive and unleash their full potential. 

Position Details

Overview
Stellar Virtual seeks a compassionate and experienced Academic Counselor to provide comprehensive support services to students in grades K-12 within our virtual learning environment. This remote position will be responsible for fostering students' academic, social-emotional, and college/career development. The Academic Counselor will work collaboratively with students, parents, teachers, and administrators to create a supportive and success-oriented learning experience for all students.

Essential Duties

• Provide individual and group counseling to students regarding academic planning, course selection, graduation requirements, and post-secondary options.
• Develop and implement academic support plans for students experiencing academic difficulties.
• Monitor student academic progress and attendance, and proactively intervene when necessary.
• Collaborate with teachers and parents to address academic concerns and develop effective strategies for student success.
• Interpret and explain standardized test results to students and parents.
• Provide individual and group counseling to students addressing social, emotional, and behavioral concerns.
• Implement social-emotional learning (SEL) programs and initiatives within the virtual environment.
• Identify and address student needs related to mental health, bullying, peer relationships, and family issues.
• Serve as a point of contact and resource for students and families navigating personal challenges.
• Make referrals to external community resources when necessary.
• Guide high school students through the college application process, including college research, essay writing, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities.
• Support on-site testing events periodically throughout the year (required).
• Provide information and resources related to career exploration, vocational training, and post-secondary pathways.
• Organize virtual college and career events and presentations.
• Assist students with developing post-secondary plans aligned with their interests and goals.
• Collaborate effectively with teachers, administrators, special education staff, and other student support personnel.
• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians regarding student progress, concerns, and available resources.
• Participate in virtual team meetings and professional development opportunities.

Knowledge, Skills & Attributes 

• Minimum of two (2) years of experience as a school counselor, preferably working with a range of grade levels (K-12), preferred experience at the secondary-level.
• Demonstrated experience in providing individual and group counseling.
• Strong understanding of child and adolescent development.
• Knowledge of academic advising, college and career counseling, and social-emotional learning principles.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a virtual environment.
• Proficiency in using technology for communication, counseling, and record-keeping.
• Empathy, patience, and a genuine commitment to supporting student well-being.
• Residency in the state of Iowa is required.

Education & Certification Requirements

• A master's degree in School Counseling or a related field.
• A valid Iowa Professional School Counselor license.

Employment "At-Will"
For W-2 employment, Stellar Virtual is an at-will employer. This means the employee and Stellar Virtual can terminate the employment at any time, with or without cause or notice, as legally permitted. This job description does not guarantee continued employment or a contract. All 1099 status is excluded.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)

Stellar Virtual is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

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