What Do School Counselors Do
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. Middle school counselors have an impact on these years by implementing a school counseling program and collaborating with school staff, parents and the community to create a safe, respectful learning environment whereby young adolescents can maximize personal and academic achievement.
The professional school counselor is a certified/licensed educator trained in school counseling with unique qualifications and skills to address all students’ academic, personal/social, and career development needs. Professional school counselors implement a comprehensive school counseling program that promotes and enhances student achievement." (ASCA, The Role of the Professional School Counselor).
The Essential Role of Counselors
The role of the middle school counselor is to provide support and enhance student learning by:
- Serving as an advocate for the student
- Promoting student academic success
- Collaborating with parents, teachers, administrators, and community resources
- Assisting students with transition
- Providing information and support for transfer students
- Planning academic and career pathways
- Promoting a positive learning environment