School Counselor: What does it mean?
To be an effective school counselor, we have a duty to implement a school counseling program that effectively creates a safe environment for not only the children that attend, but also the school staff and the parents as well. To do this means that the children have a better chance to thrive, as it promotes student achievement. Below are three skills that we focus on, per the American School Counseling Association, to create such an environment.
Leadership: An effective leader, in our belief, means to be open-minded, passionate, ever present, trustworthy, and goal-driven. As leaders of WES, our goal is to make the school a place that your children want to attend and thrive in.
Advocacy: Children are our future, that is something that none of us should forget. No matter the child’s age, race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability, our role is to advocate for their success not only in the school environment but in life.
Collaboration: Through the help of school staff, parents, and community members we will continue to provide the type of environment that your child(ren) can thrive in.
Role of the School Counselor:
As the role of the school counselor has changed over the years, one might ask- what does a school counselor do? Below you will find a few of our duties explained
Classroom lessons are done for every grade level. Topics of classroom lessons vary and are based on needs assessments and recommendations.
Small groups are formed based off of data reports, with groups typically containing a minimum of three students.
Students are seen for brief one-on-one counseling on an as needed basis. If the need arises, referrals to outside mental health agencies can be provided.
Collaboration with Teachers:
We cannot create an environment that your children can thrive in on our own. Through collaboration with teachers, we learn what classroom lessons need to be focused on, what small groups should be formed, if a child is in need of one-on-one counseling, and any other concerns that may arise.
Subjects Covered by the School Counseling Department
We focus on academic, career, and social topics, including but not limited to:
Social and friendship skills
Study skills and time management skills
Self-esteem and self-confidence
Additional topics may be implemented if the need for them arises. Needs are based on needs assessments, recommendations, as well as the school’s data profile.
Still have questions? Do not hesitate to reach out to one of our school counselors!