What is a school counselor?
Elementary students are developing attitudes about school, self, peers, social groups, and family. In addition to the essential academic foundation that students need to acquire in the elementary setting, they are also acquiring decision-making, communication, and life-training skills; character values; and feelings of dignity and self-worth."To help ensure that they are prepared to become the next generation of parents, workers, leaders and citizens, every student needs support, guidance and opportunities during childhood, a time of rapid growth and change." U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

What do school counselors do? 

• Classroom guidance lessons help students understand themselves and others. Through classroom guidance, school counselors help students develop peer relationships; effective social, decision-making, and studyskills; effective communications, conflict resolution, and coping strategies; and more.
• Individual student planning helps students set goals, establish academic and career plans, understand their own strengths and weaknesses, andprepare for the transition to the next stage of their life.
• Responsive services assist students with particular needs such as adjusting to a new school, coping with grief following a crisis, and dealing with substance abuse or other risky behaviors. These servicesare provided through individual and small group counseling, peer facilitation and consultation, and referrals to professionals trained inmental health, welfare, and other specialties.
• System support enhances school climate and relationships among members of the school community. School counselors coordinate parent outreach services, community support services, and consultations with other faculty and staff.