Definition

Comprehensive guidance and counseling is an important component within the Lebanon R-3 school district's total educational program. All students will be assisted in the development of knowledge, understanding, and acceptance of self and others; the skills necessary for successful career exploration and planning; and the competencies needed for educational and vocational development.

The program is delivered through the elementary, secondary, and vocational levels of the guidance curriculum, individual planning system, responsive services, and system support.

Philosophy

The Lebanon R-3 guidance and counseling program is both comprehensive and developmental in nature. It is student-centered, proactive, and capable of responding to crisis needs of the student. As an integral part of the overall educational process the program emphasizes the concept of total growth and development.

The need for guidance and counseling begins with pre-school entrance and continues throughout the life of the student. There will be concern for all students with recognition of individual needs.

As a program which is founded on the changing needs of the individual, family, school and community, the guidance and counseling program includes goals and activities developed to meet those needs. This program is delivered through the following components: Guidance Curriculum, Individual Planning, Responsive Services, and System Support.

The Guidance and Counseling Program will be responsible for assisting all students in developing competencies needed for personal, educational, and vocational development. This will allow students to develop more effective self management skills which enhance (1) personal skills, (2) educational preparation, (3) vocational development, and (4) career preparation.

Counselors will devote full time to the program through the elimination or reduction of non-guidance tasks, thereby enhancing the identification and achievement of student competencies through the guidance program.