Counseling Curriculum & Standards

The Massachusetts' Social Emotional Learning Standards (Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education)

American School Counselor Association, National Model 

Middle School Students' Developmental Needs (from American School Counseling Association):

Middle school is an exciting yet challenging time for students, their parents and teachers. During this passage from childhood to adolescence, middle school students are characterized by a need to explore a variety of interests, connecting their learning in the classroom to its practical application in life and work; high levels of activity coupled with frequent fatigue due to rapid growth; a search for their own unique identity as they begin turning more frequently to peers rather than parents for ideas and affirmation; extreme sensitivity to the comments from others; and heavy reliance on friends to provide comfort, understanding and approval. Identifying students’ academic and social/emotional needs, as well as providing any necessary interventions, is essential in removing barriers to learning and helping students develop skills and behaviors critical for academic achievement. The knowledge, attitudes and skills students acquire during these years build the foundation for future success. 

A Note About Confidentiality (from American School Counseling Association):

Counselors have a responsibility to protect private information received through confidential relationships with students and private information they receive about students from parents or guardians, professionals outside of schools and other school staff members. Professional school counselors inform students of the limits of confidentiality such as the possible necessity for consulting with other professionals, privileged communication, and legal or authoritative restraints. Additional exceptions to keeping private information gained in counseling relationships with students include disclosing information to parents, guardians or others when school counselors determine that students may be at risk for harming self or others. The meaning and limits of confidentiality are defined in developmentally appropriate terms to students. Professional school counselors consult with appropriate professionals when in doubt as to the validity of an exception and for the benefit of the students they counsel.