Marina Middle School Counseling Department

I. Mission Statement

The mission of the Marina Middle School Counseling Program is to provide a comprehensive, developmentally appropriate program that supports the academic, career, and social-emotional growth of every student. Grounded in the ASCA National Model and aligned with SFUSD’s core values of equity, excellence, and community, we partner with educators, families, and community members to ensure all students are supported, celebrated, and empowered to reach their fullest potential. Through advocacy, collaboration, and culturally responsive practices, Marina school counselors prepare students to thrive as resilient learners, compassionate leaders, and engaged global citizens.

II. Vision Statement

Our vision is that every Marina student graduates prepared to succeed in high school and beyond, equipped with the skills, confidence, and resilience to pursue their passions and goals. Marina students embrace their diverse identities, use their voices to advocate for themselves and others, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. We see them as lifelong learners who embody curiosity, empathy, and leadership while helping to create a more just, inclusive, and connected world.

III. Core Beliefs

We believe that:

• Every student can achieve success with equitable access, support, and opportunity.

• Diversity—in language, culture, ability, and lived experience—enriches our school community.

• School counselors advocate for students and remove barriers to learning.

• Collaboration with families, educators, and community partners is essential to student growth.

• Social-emotional learning, academic achievement, and career readiness are equally vital to success.

• Restorative, culturally responsive, and evidence-based practices foster safe and inclusive environments.
  
  

IV. Commitments

As Marina Middle School Counselors, we commit to:

• Delivering a comprehensive counseling program that supports academic, social-emotional, and college/career development.

• Building trusting relationships that empower students to advocate for themselves and others.

• Providing individual and group interventions that promote wellness, resilience, and growth.

• Collaborating with teachers, administrators, and families to meet diverse student needs.

• Equipping students with the skills to navigate high school, postsecondary opportunities, and future careers.

• Using data to identify needs, monitor progress, and strengthen program effectiveness.

• Championing equity by addressing opportunity gaps and amplifying student voice.
  
  

V. The Role of the School Counselor

School counselors at Marina Middle School collaborate with students, staff, families, and community partners to ensure equitable access to opportunities and support. Guided by the ASCA National Model and SFUSD’s commitment to equity and excellence, counselors provide a program that promotes academic achievement, social-emotional development, and college/career readiness.

Counselors serve as leaders, advocates, and collaborators who help create a safe, inclusive environment where all students can thrive. Services include:

• Academic support: course scheduling, monitoring progress, and problem-solving.

• Social-emotional support: individual and group counseling, peer conflict resolution, and crisis intervention.

• Collaboration with staff, families, and outside providers to support student well-being.

• Connections to community-based organizations and after-school opportunities.

• Promoting readiness for high school, college, and careers.

• Advocating for systemic change that removes barriers and elevates student voice.