About Freire SchoolsEstablished in 1999, Freire Schools () is a network of four charter schools across Philadelphia and Delaware whose mission is to prepare students from historically underserved communities for success in college and beyond. We're distinguished by our belief in every student who walks through our doors, our strong code of conduct and commitment to peace that ensures a safe environment for all, our sense of family throughout our community, and our joyous and engaged classrooms that focus on academic achievement. As evidence of our impact, in 2023 Stanford's Center for Research on Education Outcomes ranked Freire Schools in the top 15 in the country for academic gains out of 368 charter networks nationwide.About the teamFor this Director of Emotional Supports role, you will work at Freire Charter Middle School in Center City Philadelphia, serving students in grades 5-8. As Freire Schools' youngest Dragons, our middle school students are building the academic foundation and habits they need to thrive in a rigorous, college-preparatory high school. At Freire Middle School, we hold high expectations for what is possible in middle school and approach our work with a strong growth mindset, academic rigor, and deep care for students. We are committed to peace at all levels of our community and to creating a safe, structured, and welcoming environment where every student can learn and grow.Freire Charter Middle School: 1026 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19107What you'll doReporting to the Head of School, the Director of Emotional Supports will lead the vision, systems, and implementation of student emotional and mental health supports at Freire Middle School, ensuring all students have access to responsive, data-driven, and trauma-informed services that enable them to thrive academically and personally.ResponsibilitiesLead and implement the school's emotional supports vision, including MTSS-aligned Tier 1-3 systemsOversee counseling services and supervise emotional support staffCoordinate crisis response, risk assessments, and safety planningPartner with staff to build a restorative, trauma-informed school cultureUse data to monitor student well-being and guide interventionsManage external partnerships and support family communicationWho you areYou believe deeply in the connection between emotional well-being and academic success and are committed to building equitable, student-centered support systems. You bring a strong foundation in counseling or social work, lead with empathy and clarity, and use data and collaboration to drive impactful supports for students, staff, and families.Minimum requirementsLCSW or LPCMaster's degree required in social work or counseling3+ years of experience in school-based counseling, social work, or student supportsExperience with MTSS, restorative practices, or trauma-informed approachesStrong leadership, communication, and organizational skillsPay and benefitsFreire Schools offers a competitive compensation package, comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision coverage, a 403(b) retirement plan with a 5% employer contribution for Pennsylvania employees, and a strong commitment to developing all staff as professionals while working with exceptional students in Philadelphia.Freire Schools is committed to maintaining a workplace environment that is free from all forms of discrimination and discriminatory harassment, in service of the policy goal to provide all persons equal access to all categories of employment regardless of a person's actual or perceived race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender (including gender identity and expression), age, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, ethnic background, marital status, pregnancy or related conditions, disability, veteran/military status, or any other category protected by state or federal law.
Job Title
Director of Emotional Supports (26-27 SY)