School counseling services can contribute to the personal growth, educational development, and emotional well-being of students. Research suggests that counseling services can have long-term effects on a child's well-being and can prevent a student from turning to violence and can improve a student's academic achievement. Studies on the effects of school counseling have shown positive effects on students' grades, reducing classroom disruptions, and enhancing teachers' abilities to manage classroom behavior effectively.

There is no such thing as a typical day for a school counselor and the duties vary widely from school to school. However the following is a list of some of the activities that can be performed by your school counselor on any given day:

•Classroom Counseling Curriculum: Also referred to as "Classroom Guidance Lessons"

•Individual Planning: Consultation, Goal Setting, Program Evaluation/Assessment

•Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Small Group Counseling, Consultation, Crisis Counseling, Parent Conferences

•System Support: Program Planning & Coordination, Staff Community Relations, Professional Development, Referrals


What does the School Counselor do?

School Counselors provide a variety of services related children and adults. Classroom lessons, small group counseling, individual counseling, and consultations with parents and teachers are among the services offered. 


Classroom Lessons

We visit each classroom once a month. During these scheduled lessons we will discuss a variety of material intended to help students in the areas of their social and emotional well-being, academic, and career decisions. 


Small Group Counseling

Small group counseling will be provided for students that might need a little extra attention on certain topics. Small groups will usually consist of about four to six students and the counselor. The topics will be decided as needs arise. Students will be given a permission form to bring home to parents before participating in small group activities. Common group topics are:


Individual Counseling

We provide individual counseling to students that request to speak with us or students that are referred by a teacher or parent. Strategies will be decided based on what each particular student's needs are. This service will be provided on short term basis. If the student needs services that are beyond the realm of a school counselor, outside resources will be suggested. 


Consultation

The school counselors, administrators, teachers, and parents work together to support children. As elementary counselors, we will work with parents, teachers, and administrators to:

1. exchange and gather information

2. provide recommendations

3. discuss parenting concerns

4. provide information, materials, referral assistance

5. address student needs

6. promote a positive learning environment