Why Social Emotional Learning and School Counselors?

According to the American School Counselor Association:

"The elementary school years set the foundation for developing the knowledge, attitudes and skills necessary for children to become healthy, competent and confident learners. Elementary school counselors have an impact on these years by implementing a comprehensive school counseling program and collaborating with school staff, parents and the community to create a safe and respectful learning environment. By providing education, prevention, early identification and intervention, elementary school counselors help their students achieve academic success, develop an understanding of career opportunities and develop social/emotional skills in response to issues they face."

What Do Elementary School Counselors Do?

• Teach classroom counseling lessons

• Facilitate short term small group counseling sessions

• Provide immediate and short-term individual counseling

• Work collaborating with teachers and staff

• Consult with parents

 School Counselors work to support that:

•  All students can and have a right to achieve according to their own personal strengths.

•  All students deserve to have a school counselor advocating for them and their best interests.

• With the support of caring and driven teachers, parents, administrators and school counselors, all students can achieve academic Excellence.

All School Counselors Will:

• Plan and manage the comprehensive school counseling program.

• Assist with making sure the school environment is welcoming, positive, and safe for all students.

• Deliver classroom guidance curriculum, responsive services, individual student planning and all other program activities.

• Evaluate the effectiveness of school counseling program interventions by reviewing data and make necessary adjustments in order to meet evolving student needs.

• Abide by ethical and legal guidelines set forth by the ASCA National Model, professional mandates and state laws.

• Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance knowledge of best practices.