Why School Counseling?

The elementary school years set the foundation for developing the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary for children to become healthy, competent, and confident learners. Elementary school counselors have an impact on these years by implementing a comprehensive school counseling program and collaborating with school staff, parents, and the community to create a safe and respectful learning environment. By providing education, prevention, early identification, and intervention, elementary school counselors help their students achieve academic success, develop an understanding of career opportunities and develop social/emotional skills in response to issues they face.

Elementary school counselors hold a master’s degree and required state certification in school counseling. They are educators uniquely trained in child development, learning strategies, self-management, and social skills, who understand and promote success for today’s diverse students. They implement a comprehensive school counseling program to support students through this important developmental period. The program provides education, prevention, and intervention activities, which are integrated into all aspects of children’s lives. The program teaches knowledge, attitudes, and skills students need to acquire in academic, career, and social/emotional development, which serves as the foundation for future success.

Elementary school counselors do not work in isolation; rather they are integral to the total educational program. They provide a proactive program that engages students and includes leadership, advocacy, and collaboration with school staff, administration, and community/family members in the delivery of programs and activities to help students achieve success. Elementary school counselors also collaborate with teachers and parents on early identification and intervention of children’s academic and social/emotional needs, which is essential in removing barriers to learning and developing skills and behaviors critical for academic achievement.

Adapted from the American School Counseling Association

https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/Careers-Roles/WhyElem.pdf