What Do School Counselors Do?

School counselors are certified and licensed educators who improve student success for ALL students by implementing a comprehensive school counseling program. School counselors work to maximize student success, promoting access and equity for all students. School counselors help all students (1) apply academic achievement strategies, (2) manage emotions and apply interpersonal skills, and (3) plan for postsecondary options [higher education, military, work force, etc]. Appropriate duties for a school counselor include providing: 

• Individual student academic planning and goal setting

• School counseling classroom lessons based on student success standards

• Short-term counseling to students 

• Referrals for long-term support

• Collaboration with families, teachers, administrators, and the community to promote student success

• Advocacy for students at Individual Eduational Plan (IEP), 504 meetings, and other student-focused meetings

• Data analysis to identify student issues, needs, and challenges 

• Acting as a systems change agent to improve equity and access, achievement, and opportunities for all students