School counselors are professionals supporting K-12 students academic, career, and social-emotional growth through individual/group counseling, program development, and connecting students with resources for success, focusing on holistic development in alignment with the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) standards. They help with learning challenges, social issues, mental health, and post-graduation planning, acting as advocates for all students within the school's academic mission.
School counselors provide:
- Academic Support: Helping students set goals, overcome learning barriers, and choose courses.
- Social/Emotional Development: Providing support for managing emotions, building interpersonal skills, and addressing behavioral issues.
- Career & College Readiness: Guiding students in exploring careers, selecting educational paths, and planning for life after graduation.
- Program Management: Designing and implementing school-wide counseling programs, often using the ASCA National Model.