Advocacy

Artifacts for Advocacy:

KBreen-School Counseling Program Design.pptx 

KBreen-Professional School Counselor Plan.docx 

Reflection:

As a school counselor in an elementary setting, I strive to ensure that as a school counselor in training, I actively engage the community to foster a collaborative and supportive student environment. One of the primary ways I achieve community involvement is by establishing strong partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and families. By hosting family engagement nights, career days, and workshops on mental health and academic success, I create opportunities for parents and guardians to participate in their children’s educational journey.

Additionally, I collaborate with local mental health agencies, social services, and nonprofit organizations to provide resources and support systems that benefit students and their families. By maintaining open communication with these stakeholders, I ensure that students receive the assistance they need inside and outside the school environment. Through these efforts, I build a network that enhances student well-being and academic achievement while fostering a sense of unity and shared responsibility among all stakeholders.

In my role, I also embrace the principles of servant leadership within the classroom and throughout the school. I prioritize the needs of students and staff by providing emotional support, advocating for student success, and fostering a culture of empathy and respect. I lead social-emotional learning lessons that equip students with self-awareness, self-regulation, and conflict-resolution skills in the classroom. I also work closely with teachers to implement strategies that promote a positive learning environment and address students' diverse needs.

Outside the classroom, I mentor students who require additional support, facilitate small group counseling sessions, and coordinate school-wide initiatives that promote inclusivity and kindness. These efforts help cultivate a school culture where students feel safe and empowered to succeed academically and socially. By modeling servant leadership, I create an atmosphere where students feel valued, staff feel supported, and the school community thrives.

In conclusion, I play a vital role in promoting community involvement and servant leadership within the school. I ensure students can access valuable resources and support networks by fostering strong relationships with families and community partners. Furthermore, by embodying the principles of servant leadership, I strive to create a positive school culture where students and staff feel heard, respected, and empowered. Through these efforts, we create a learning environment that supports all students' academic, social, and emotional growth. 

Professional and Ethical Standards:

ASCA Standard: B-PF 8. Demonstrate advocacy in a comprehensive school counseling program.

ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors: 

A.6. Appropriate Collaboration, Advocacy, and Referrals for Counseling

A.10. Marginalized Populations

A.11. Bullying, Harassment, Discrimination, Bias and Hate Incidents

CACREP Standard G. 2. 1. School counselor roles as leaders, advocates, and systems change agents in P-12 schools.

Guiding Questions:

1. How does the school counselor in training  (SCIT) strive to achieve community involvement? 

As a school counselor in training (SCIT) at an elementary school, I strive to achieve community involvement by building strong connections between the school, families, and local organizations. I engage parents through open communication, emails, and workshops to strengthen the home-school partnership. Collaborating with local businesses and organizations, I seek opportunities for mentorship programs, guest speakers, and service-learning projects that enrich student learning. Additionally, I work with teachers to integrate community involvement into classroom activities, such as career days and service projects, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility. My ultimate goal is to create a supportive network where students feel encouraged, families stay engaged, and the community remains invested in student success. 

2. How does the SCIT attempt to be a servant leader in the classroom and the school? 

As a school counselor in training (SCIT), I strive to be a servant leader in the classroom and the school by prioritizing the needs of students, staff, and families while fostering a culture of support, empathy, and growth. I lead by example, demonstrating active listening, compassion, and a commitment to student well-being. I collaborate with teachers in the classroom to provide lessons on social-emotional learning, conflict resolution, and academic skills, ensuring students have the tools they need to succeed. I also advocate for students by identifying barriers to learning and connecting them with appropriate resources. I build relationships with staff and administration within the school, offering support in creating a positive school climate through initiatives that promote inclusivity and student success. By serving others first, whether through individual counseling, small group support, or schoolwide programs, I aim to inspire a sense of community, empowerment, and shared responsibility for the well-being of all students.