Director of College Counseling

The Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School (CESJDS), an independent school for grades PK-12 in suburban Washington D.C., seeks a full-time, experienced Director of College Counseling to serve as the operational and strategic leader of the College Counseling Department.  The Director oversees an Associate and Assistant Director of College Counseling who support graduating classes of 75-90 students. The Director reports to the High School Principal and serves on the High School Leadership Team.  As a leader within the school community, the Director is expected to role model professional practices and a strong commitment to the values and mission of the School within the context of a pluralistic Jewish day school. 

JDS is nationally renowned for the quality of education in general, Jewish and co-curricular studies; for the community that has been created for students, families, faculty and staff; and for preparing students to lead successful and meaningful lives of purpose. Each year CESJDS graduates matriculate at an impressively diverse array of the nation's most distinguished colleges and universities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership

• Build on the comprehensive college counseling program that is already in place, ensuring a structured and organized approach to each student’s journey.
• Lead and manage the College Counseling Office, including the supervision and evaluation of the two college counselors and part-time college counseling associate. 
• Develop, enhance and implement exceptional programming that informs students and families of the college search process.
• Serve as a resource for the entire school community on matters related to college admissions, preparing students for a successful transition from high school to higher education.
• Prepare and present data reports as requested by the Principal, Head of School and Board of Directors.
• Provide leadership in creating a supportive environment where students’ individual strengths, goals, and Jewish values are emphasized throughout the college process.
• Encourage the College Counseling team to pursue professional development opportunities. 

College Admissions and Outreach

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with admissions officers and staff at colleges and universities.
• Coordinate visits and informational sessions with college representatives, ensuring that students have exposure to a wide range of institutions.
• Provide upgrades and ensure timely updates to the College Counseling website and the CESJDS High School Profile which is sent to colleges with all applications.
• Ensure timely transmission of transcripts and applications to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
• Engage in meaningful professional development and establish presence in professional organizations such as PCACAC and NACAC.
• Host college fairs, panel discussions, and presentations on various aspects of the college process, including financial aid and scholarships.
• Stay informed on the latest trends and changes in the college admissions landscape, including changes to testing requirements, application procedures, and financial aid opportunities.
• Keep abreast of gap year programs and opportunities that reflect Jewish learning, culture, and community life after graduation and in the higher education space.

College Counseling 

• Provide one-on-one college counseling to students, guiding them through all aspects of the college search and application process.
• Assist students with identifying colleges and universities that are a good fit academically, socially, and spiritually, considering both personal and family needs.
• Guide students to develop and refine their college application materials, including essays, resumes, and personal statements.
• Maintain strong channels of communication with families, providing updates on their student’s progress and addressing any concerns or questions they may have.
• Organize and lead group sessions on topics such as college application strategies, essay writing, and standardized testing.
• Integrate the school’s Jewish values and traditions into the college counseling process, encouraging students to explore opportunities that align with their Jewish identity.

Standardized Testing Oversight

• Oversee the administration of standardized tests (PSAT and PreACT) within the school.
• Guide students in preparing and registering for standardized tests, helping them understand test formats, preparation resources, and timelines.
• Maintain and communicate school policies regarding standardized testing, including score submission and interpretation.
• Remain current on changes in standardized testing formats, scoring, and trends in college admissions testing.

Academic Advising

• Provide ongoing academic advising to students, helping them determine curricular paths that align with their strengths, interests, and college goals.
• Monitor academic progress, provide feedback, and intervene when necessary to help students meet graduation requirements and achieve academic success.
• Partner with the Assistant Principal on academic advising and course registration.
• Collaborate with faculty to ensure that students are placed in appropriate courses and receive any academic support they may need.

 Qualifications:

• Master’s degree or advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in college counseling, preferably within a Jewish day school or independent school environment.
• A joyful demeanor and sense of humor.
• Proven track record of successful college placements and working with students to achieve their post-secondary goals.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work with a diverse range of students and families.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic school environment.
• Strong knowledge of the college admissions process, including application procedures, financial aid, and standardized testing.
• Experience with Naviance or other college admissions platforms and the Common Application.
• Strong network within the college admissions community.

To learn more about the School and to apply, visit: https://www.cesjds.org/about/work-at-cesjds

Work Environment: 

• Faculty may be asked to perform their work responsibilities on campus and/or at home. In both settings, the teacher is required to maintain a professional environment.

• While on campus, classes may be operating either in person or in an alternative setting. Teachers are expected to be present and accessible for the entire school day (contracted hours), regardless of the setting.

• In accordance with the School's duty to provide and maintain a workplace that is free of known hazards, the School has adopted a mandatory Vaccination Policy to safeguard the health of our employees and their families and the community at large from infectious diseases such as  the flu, which may be reduced by annual vaccinations. This policy complies with all applicable laws and is based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local health authorities, as applicable.

The Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate all applicants without unlawful consideration of race, color, age, religion, gender, marital status, disability, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. The School encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.