School Counseling Program Vision Statement

The vision of the Iola-Scandinavia Elementary School Counseling Program is to provide a comprehensive, developmental counseling program that addresses the academic, social, and emotional needs of all students. Through advocacy, leadership, and collaboration, school counselors are professional student advocates who provide support to maximize student potential and academic achievement.

School Counseling Program Mission Statement

The mission of the School Counseling program at Iola-Scandinavia Elementary School is to provide all students with a comprehensive school counseling program centered around an engaging curriculum that encourages the highest level of student achievement through their growth in academic, career and personal/social domains. In partnership with teachers, administrators, parents and a caring community, the school counselor will help all students to be successful lifelong learners and problem solvers.

What is the role of a School Counselor?

If you click on the link provided below, you will find information on the role of a School Counselor which is provided by the American School Counselor Association.

https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/Careers-Roles/RoleStatement.pdf

The Essential Role of Elementary School Counselors

If you click on the link provided below, you will find information on the role of an Elementary School Counselor which is provided by the American School Counselor Association.

https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/Careers-Roles/WhyElem.pdf

Confidentiality

For more information, please see the link below.

https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/PositionStatements/PS_Confidentiality.pdf

Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect/Mandatory Reporting

Wisconsin law requires all employees of Wisconsin public school districts to report suspected child abuse and neglect, Wis. Stat. sec. 48.981(2)(a)16m. In addition, school boards are to ensure all employees receive training provided by the Department of Public Instruction within six months of initial hiring and at least every five years thereafter, Wis. Stat. sec. 118.07(5). Employees are considered to be anyone who receives an annual statement of wages for tax purposes (W-2 form) from the school district. Some school districts contract with a Cooperative Educational Service Agency (CESA) or other organizations for different kinds of services. In such cases, school districts may wish to consider requiring these contracted personnel to participate in the required training, if they work with students.

I work very closely with law enforcement agencies, WCDHHS, and other professionals within the court system who represent a child/children and families within our community. Safety is my #1 priority. As mentioned above, any report of suspected abuse is reported as soon as I receive the information. I will also assist with making reports if something is reported to another staff person within the school building/district.

If you have concerns about a child's safety, please call your local police/sheriff's department or human services agency. The number for Waupaca County is 715-258-6300, ask to talk with an intake worker to report suspected child abuse and neglect and the secretary will get you to the person who will take your report.