Join the conversation

Growing up, were you ever teased relentlessly by classmates? Did your parents go through a divorce, or did you lose a loved one? In high-school, were you frequently overwhelmed by classes, sports and college applications? If you managed to avoid all these scenarios, then you’re among a minority because events of this nature are commonplace for America’s children. As they cope with these stressors, learning frequently suffers and students need someone to turn to for help and support – that someone is a school counselor.

Nation-wide there are more than 100,000 school counselors who are both highly trained educators and mental health professionals. School counselors must possess a master’s degree or higher in school counseling and meet state certification/licensure standards. Most public school systems require counselors to successfully complete advanced-degree coursework in topics such as individual and group counseling, research and program evaluation, career development, and human growth and development to name just a few. Counselors are uniquely qualified to address the social, emotional, behavioral and academic aspects of a child’s growth in the school setting, as well as assist in career planning to ensure success after a student leaves school.

Extensive training empowers counselors to provide a wide range of invaluable support services to schools and students; however, unfortunately, school counselors are often among the first to feel the effects of budget cuts. The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) recommends a ratio of 250 student-to-one counselor with a lower ratio for at-risk student populations. The national student-to-counselor average is currently 457-to-one. School counseling professionals are often misunderstood or underestimated by policy-makers when it comes to funding decisions. Counselors connect with parents, administrators and teachers, often serving as a crossroads in a school. As members of a school community, their knowledge of individual students transcends classrooms, hallways and cafeterias.

Research studies indicate school counselors are crucial when it comes to maximizing achievement. The Institute of Medicine has concluded that mental health and psychological services are essential for many students to achieve academically, yet an estimated 75% of children with emotional and behavioral disorders do not receive those mental health services. School counselors have proven effective in preventing students from committing suicide, the third leading cause of death among Americans between the ages of 15 and 24. Counselors can improve test score results, including those of economically disadvantaged students, reduce behavior referrals and increase graduation rates. They address individual instances of harassment, and can help address widespread bullying. Studies on the effect of small group counseling on failing elementary school students showed grade improvement for 83% of participants. A study of Missouri high schools revealed students who participated in more fully developed model guidance programs reported earning higher grades, feeling better prepared for the future and experiencing a  more positive school environment. Finally, students who participate in career development curriculum show more future-focused orientation, a better understanding of career possibilities and increased school engagement.

These professionals are committed to their students’ success and National School Counseling Week provides a perfect opportunity to highlight the invaluable efforts of school counselors across the country.  As a member of a wider school team, counselors provide programming to help students with social development, career planning, and time-management. These guidance programs are done in coordination with administrators and educators to increase a school’s capacity to achieve its mission and goals. At a time of economic insecurity when many families are struggling to pay bills and put food on the table, children are more vulnerable than ever. Teachers, as classroom professionals, are frequently overworked but they must also must deal with students’ emotional challenges before learning can begin. Counselors are a resource for teachers in the effort to ensure children are receiving all the necessary support, for learning and life success.

Parents want to know they are leaving their children in capable hands and in a safe and supportive learning environment. School counselors are an integral part of this desired ideal and of the education community; it is in everyone’s best interest to advocate for their presence and expertise.