What is the role of the School Counselor?

Middle school students are characterized by rapid physical growth, curiosity about their world and an emerging self identity. The primary role of the middle school guidance counselor is to be a student's advocate during these critical early adolescent years, to help them decrease the tensions, sort through the problems, and share in the joyful experiences that are part of their school lives. Early adolescence is often a confusing period, confusing to the child, his peers, and the adults in his or her life. Middle school counselors help the student, her peers and her parents navigate through the confusion.

Middle school counselors are part of a team including parents, teachers, administrators and specialists. This team is responsible for guiding each student's development through the middle school years and closely monitoring their academic progress. When a concern surfaces regarding a student, counselor's review that student's educational history, collect data and meet with the student in an effort to work with the team on developing strategies specifically designed to provide the student with opportunities to alleviate the presenting problem. School counselors present developmentally appropriate curriculum within classroom settings to address issues most relevant to today's student. Each year the department does an internal survey to assess student need areas, and the Metrowest Youth Health Risk Survey is also distributed.

If students are experiencing social or emotional issues, counselors will meet individually with students. The counselor provides support, collaborates with the adjustment counselor, teachers, parents and outside agencies to develop a plan to assist the student.