WHAT DOES A SCHOOL COUNSELOR DO?

In short, school counselors work to maximize student success, promoting access and equity for all students. As vital members of the school leadership team, school counselors create a school culture of success for all. School counselors help all students achieve academically, manage emotions, and apply interpersonal skills. 

WHY DO WE NEED SCHOOL COUNSELORS IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL? 

The elementary years are a time when students begin to develop their academic self-concept and 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.

HOW DO COUNSELORS MEET THOSE NEEDS?

Elementary school counselors are educators uniquely trained in child development, learning strategies, self management and social skills, who understand and promote success for today’s diverse students. They implement a school counseling program to support students through this important developmental period. The program provides education, prevention and intervention activities, which are integrated into all aspects of children’s lives. 

The program teaches knowledge, attitudes and skills students need to acquire in academic, career and social/emotional development, which serve as the foundation for future success. 

Elementary school counselors do not work in isolation; rather they are integral to the total educational program. They provide a proactive program that engages students and includes leadership, advocacy and collaboration with school staff, administration and community/family members in the delivery of programs and activities to help students achieve success. 

Source: American School Counselor Association https://www.schoolcounselor.org/About-School-Counseling/School-Counselor-Roles-Ratios