Reflection on the ASCA National Model: The Manage Section
During my internship at Keller Elementary School, I had the opportunity to deeply engage with the Manage section of the ASCA National Model, focusing on refining my skills in program management, self-assessment, and continuous improvement. This experience has significantly contributed to my growth as a future school counselor
Reflecting on Feedback for Self-Improvement
Receiving feedback from my supervisors has been invaluable in shaping my approach to school counseling. Initially, I was apprehensive about my organizational skills and the implementation of school counseling programs. However, constructive feedback highlighted my strengths in rapport-building with students, while also pointing out areas for improvement, particularly in data tracking and program evaluation. I developed a personalized plan for self-improvement by setting specific, measurable goals for enhancing my data management skills. This included attending workshops on data analysis provided by the district and regularly checking in with my supervisors to discuss my progress. This iterative process not only built my confidence, but also strengthened my ability to respond to feedback effectively.
Using Self-Assessment Tools
I utilized various self-assessment tools highlighting my strengths and improvement areas to further my growth. The ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors framework helped me recognize my ability to collaborate effectively with students, families, and school colleagues, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. This collaboration was evident in my work with families to address student needs and in partnerships with teachers to implement successful interventions. However, the self-assessment also identified data collection for attendance as an area for improvement, particularly in alignment with district initiatives. I set specific goals to enhance my skills in this area, including participating in workshops focused on effective data collection methods and engaging with colleagues to share best practices. This process of self-reflection and collaboration empowered me to take ownership of my professional development by reinforcing the importance of using data to inform our counseling programs and better serve our students.
Continuous Evaluation of the Counseling Program
Throughout my internship, I learned the importance of systematically evaluating the comprehensive school counseling program. I began by gathering feedback from students, parents, and teachers through surveys and informal discussions. This data collection helped me assess whether the programs I implemented were meeting the diverse needs of all students. For instance, I noticed a lack of engagement in a particular group counseling session aimed at social skills development. By analyzing the feedback, I adjusted the program format to include more interactive activities, resulting in increased participation and positive responses from students. This experience reinforced the necessity of ongoing evaluation and flexibility in program management.
Conclusion
Overall, my internship has provided me with a solid foundation in the Mangage section of the ASCA National Model. The insights gained from feedback, self-assessment, and program evaluation have equipped me with the tools necessary to be an effective school counselor. I feel more prepared to create and implement comprehensive counseling programs that are responsive to the needs of my students.