The purpose of the school counseling program is to support the school's academic mission and to have a positive impact on student achievement, attendance, and discipline.
School counseling programs...
are based on data-informed decision making
are delivered to all students systematically
include a developmentally appropriate curriculum focused on the mindsets and behaviors all students need for postsecondary readiness and success
close achievement and opportunity gaps
result in improved student achievement, attendance and discipline
The Round Rock ISD Counseling Program is based on the ASCA National Model.
All students will receive guidance lessons taught by the school counselor that addresses the mindsets and behaviors of the ASCA Student Standards. Because early intervention is critical to future success, our Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students will receive additional lessons about emotions, self-regulation, and making friends. Students will also receive direct instruction in social-emotional skills through weekly lessons taught by the classroom teacher from the research-based Second Step curriculum. Additionally, specific lessons will be taught about targeted topics based on a needs assessment survey.
Based on universal screener results and individual student needs, students may get more targeted services through small group lessons and short-term individual counseling. Teachers, parents, and students themselves can make referrals to the school counselor to determine the need for these targeted services.
For students and families who need support outside of the scope of the school counseling program, referrals to other district services or outside agencies will be made. The school counselor works with the Families in Transition (homeless) program, the Backpack Coalition, and the district social workers to advocate for the needs of students who need these specialized programs.