School counseling programs are essential for students to achieve optimal personal growth, acquire positive social skills and values, set informed career goals and realize full academic potential to become productive, contributing members of the world community.
The elementary school years set the foundation for children to become healthy, competent and confident learners. They are beginning to develop decision-making, communication and life skills, as well as character values. It is also a time when students develop behaviors and mindsets toward school, self, peers, social groups and family.
Why have elementary school counselors?
Elementary school counselors collaborate with school staff, parents and the community to create a safe and respectful learning environment for all students. By providing education, prevention, early identification and intervention, elementary school counselors help students develop social/emotional skills and strategies, achieve academic success, and begin the career exploration process.
Student services
- School counseling core curriculum: direct instruction, team teaching and responsive activities/lessons based on student needs/data and staff feedback
- Group activities: planned activities outside the classroom promoting social/emotional, academic and career development
- Individual student planning
- Responsive services: planned, short-term and goal-focused counseling to individuals and/or small groups
- Crisis response: supporting and assisting students and families as they navigate crisis and emergency situations
- Consultation and collaboration: working alongside parents, teachers, other educators and community organizations to develop an action plan that promotes student achievement and pro-social behavior
- Referrals: sharing school or community resources that offer additional assistance and information
Social/emotional support
- Help to instill positive character traits through character education programs
- Build relationships with all students so they feel connected to their school community
- Help students resolve conflict and develop coping skills
- Support and empower students who exhibit challenging behaviors in school
- School counselors do not provide therapy or long-term counseling in schools; they are prepared to recognize and respond to student mental health needs and assist students and families seeking additional resources
Academic support
- Supporting the academic success of all students by working with teachers, Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) team and parents/guardians
- Present classroom lessons to teach students skills for learning
Career development support
- Create awareness of the world of work, careers and post-secondary options to elementary students in a developmentally appropriate manner
Family support
- Work with parents to implement strategies and programs to help students be successful in school
- Collaborate with the district’s school-family liaison and community agencies to assist parents/guardians in obtaining needed services
Transition support
- Support new students to the district
- Work with incoming kindergarten students to help them and their families have a successful transition to elementary school
- Work with middle school counselors to help students and their families have a successful transition to grade 5
Elementary school counselors hold a master’s degree and required New York state certification in school counseling. They participate in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices and challenges facing today’s students.
Elementary school counselors meet on a monthly basis to enhance the program and provide consistency between the district’s three elementary schools. Professional association membership enhances the school counselor’s knowledge and effectiveness.