The School Counselor's Role

"The elementary years are a time when students begin to develop their academic self-concept and their feelings of competence and confidence as learners. They are beginning to develop decision making, communication and life skills, as well as character values. It is also a time when students develop and acquire attitudes toward school, self, peers, social groups and family. Comprehensive developmental school counseling programs provide education, prevention and intervention services, which are integrated into all aspects of children’s lives. Early identification and intervention of children’s academic and social/ emotional needs is essential in removing barriers to learning and developing skills and behaviors that are critical for academic achievement. The knowledge, attitudes and skills students acquire in academic, career and social/emotional development serve as the foundation for future success."

-American School Counselor Association (ASCA)

Mission Statement

The mission of the Gilbert Elementary School Counseling Department is to provide a developmentally appropriate and comprehensive school counseling program that addresses the academic, social, emotional, and career awareness needs of ALL learners. We empower our primary learners to cultivate a caring community through the delivery of purposeful core curriculum, school and community partnerships, data-driven practices, and student-centered activities. By modeling and teaching effective communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, the school counselors at Gilbert Elementary School pledge to create a safe and encouraging learning environment where students are engaged in designing their futures.

Vision Statement

The students at Gilbert Elementary School will be critical thinking, caring communicators that collaborate, problem solve, and persevere in order to become safe, healthy, and resilient future citizens.