Job Description
Kealakehe Elementary School in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, is hiring a Grade 1 School Counselor to support the academic, social, and emotional development of young students. This full-time position is part of the Hawaii State Department of Education's commitment to providing complete student support services.
As a school counselor, you will work closely with teachers, families, and administrators to create a positive learning environment and address the unique needs of elementary-aged children.
The role is ideal for a licensed counselor who is passionate about early intervention and supports student success in a school setting.
Qualification
To qualify for this Grade 1 School Counselor position, you must meet the minimum education requirement of a Bachelor's degree. A valid Hawaii teaching license or Emergency Hire Permit is required upon hire. If you do not yet have a teaching license, you may obtain one through the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board.
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution (minimum qualification for teacher, librarian, or counselor positions, except CTE).
- Valid Hawaii teaching license or Emergency Hire Permit upon hire.
- If hired without completing a Teacher's Education Program, must enroll in a program and obtain a valid Hawaii teaching license within 3 years.
- Must demonstrate active pursuit of Hawaii licensing requirements each year as set by the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board (HTSB).
- Enrolled program must align with the teaching line (counselor) you are hired in.
- Applicants may apply for a Hawaii teaching license through the HTSB website.
- Review eligibility for bonuses, differentials, and initial salary placement at www.teachinhawaii.org.
Role Responsibilities
Provide academic, career, and social-emotional counseling to Grade 1 students.
- Collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to support student development.
- Develop and implement school counseling programs aligned with state standards.
- Conduct individual and group counseling sessions as needed.
- Assist students with transition to elementary school and early intervention strategies.
- Maintain confidential student records and comply with legal and ethical guidelines.
- Participate in school-wide initiatives to promote a positive school climate.
- Provide crisis intervention and referral services when necessary.
Conditions & Requirements
Must be able to obtain and maintain a valid Hawaii teaching license or Emergency Hire Permit.
- If hired without a completed Teacher's Education Program, must enroll in an approved program within the first year.
- Must complete Hawaii licensing requirements within 3 years of hire.
- Must demonstrate annual progress toward licensure as determined by HTSB.
- Employment is contingent upon meeting all state and federal background check requirements.
Benefits
Competitive salary range of $53,649
- $75,494 per year.
- Full-time employment with the Hawaii State Department of Education.
- Opportunity to work in a supportive school environment on the Big Island.
- Eligibility for bonuses, differentials, and initial salary placement as per state guidelines.
Additional Information
This position is open continuously; applications are accepted until the vacancy is filled.
- The Hawaii State Department of Education is an equal opportunity employer.
- New hires must comply with Hawaii's teacher licensing requirements.
- For questions about licensure, contact the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board.
- Visit www.teachinhawaii.org for details on bonuses and salary placement.
- This is a full-time, school-year position at Kealakehe Elementary in Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
About Company
The Hawaii State Department of Education (HIDOE) is the sole public school system for the state of Hawaii, serving over 170,000 students across seven districts. HIDOE is committed to providing a high-quality education and supporting student success through dedicated educators and staff. This role at Kealakehe Elementary reflects HIDOE's focus on early childhood development and complete student support services. Hawaii State Department of Education is named as the hiring organisation for the Kealakehe Elementary: Grade 1 School Counselor, 73957 (2026-02936) post.
FAQs
Do I need a teaching license to apply for this school counselor job?
Yes, you must have a valid Hawaii teaching license or Emergency Hire Permit upon hire. If you do not have one, you can apply through the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board.
Can I apply if I have a Bachelor's degree but no teaching license?
Yes, you can apply. However, if hired, you must enroll in a Teacher's Education Program and obtain a Hawaii teaching license within three years.
What documents are required to apply for this position?
You need to submit a completed online application, supplemental questions, resume, college transcripts, and a copy of your teaching license or Emergency Hire Permit if available.
How will I be evaluated for Kealakehe Elementary: Grade 1 School Counselor, 73957 (2026-02936)?
Applications are reviewed continuously. Qualified candidates may be contacted for an interview. Selection is based on education, experience, and fit with the school's needs.
Who is a good fit for Kealakehe Elementary: Grade 1 School Counselor, 73957 (2026-02936) at Hawaii State Department of Education?
Anyone whose background matches the published criteria for Kealakehe Elementary: Grade 1 School Counselor, 73957 (2026-02936) is worth applying, provided they read the eligibility and instructions closely first. Applicants should compare the answer with the official announcement, prepare the documents named there, and avoid submitting until each eligibility and application instruction has been checked.
Why does Kealakehe Elementary: Grade 1 School Counselor, 73957 (2026-02936) at Hawaii State Department of Education matter for job seekers right now?
It represents an active public-sector vacancy with clear requirements and a stated application route, which is what most job seekers are looking for. Applicants should compare the answer with the official announcement, prepare the documents named there, and avoid submitting until each eligibility and application instruction has been checked.
Which requirement should applicants focus on for Kealakehe Elementary: Grade 1 School Counselor, 73957 (2026-02936)?
Focus on the qualification, specialized experience, citizenship, hiring-path and document requirements stated in the announcement, since they decide eligibility. Applicants should compare the answer with the official announcement, prepare the documents named there, and avoid submitting until each eligibility and application instruction has been checked.