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What does a school counselor do in
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See how EXSEL lessons are developed
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History of School/Guidance Counseling
School/ Guidance counseling started about 100 years
ago with caring teachers that helped their students plan for their future.
By the early 1900's, students had more occupational and educational options
so guidance counseling became a profession.
Qualifications of a school counselor
To become a school counselor, each state has certain educational requirements.
Most states require a college degree plus one to two years of special
study in school counseling. Some states may also require teaching experience.
Personal characteristics are just as important as educational requirements
when it comes to being a school counselor. They must have the capabilities
of being caring, patient, and open-minded, and must believe that everyone
can change.
Guidance Counseling in Elementary School
In elementary schools, school counselors try to anticipate problems that
may occur in students lives and then try to prevent these problems from
happening. Some elementary school counselors can work with the students
in the gifted learning program or they can sometimes work with students
with learning disabilities who have special needs. Counselors can work
with a team that may include the school principal, a psychologist, an
evaluator, a social worker, special-education teachers, and parents. At
all times, elementary school counselors work closely with parents, teachers,
and school administrators. School counselors are usually met at their
office door by a student or faculty member before the day begins. Most
counselors have to decide which issue requires immediate attention and
then prioritize from there. Elementary school counselors deal a lot in
the emotional realm of life. This is due to the fact that students this
age think emotionally and often do not hold back their feelings. Although
some students express their emotions in unhealthy ways their emotions
are always surfacing.
Counseling and guidance programs in school
The elementary school counseling and guidance program is a part of the
total school program and complements learning in the classroom. It is
child-centered, preventive, and developmental. The program encourages
students' social, emotional, and personal growth at each stage of their
development. The purpose of counseling with students, parents, and teachers
is to help students maximize their potential. The elementary school counselor
also conducts guidance lessons; consults with parents, teachers, and other
professionals; and coordinates student services in the school.
Counseling and guidance programs promote
- Understanding of self and developing a positive self-image;
- Showing respect for the feelings of others;
- Understanding the decision-making process;
- Maintaining effective relationships with peers and
adults;
- Developing effective study skills;
- Being prepared to make the transition to the intermediate
school;
- Gaining an understanding of the world of work.
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