What Do Elementary School Counselors Do?

Elementary school years set the tone for developing the knowledge, attitudes and skill necessary for children to become healthy, competent and confident learners. Mt. Olive School counselors work as a team with the school staff, parents and the community to create a caring climate and atmosphere. By providing education, prevention, early identification and intervention, school counselors can help all children achieve academic and social success. An elementary school counselor holds a master's degree and a required state certification in school counseling. Maintaining certification includes on-going professional development to stay current with education reform and challenges facing today's students.

Elementary School Counselors Collaborate with:

Principal, Instructional Supervisor, Teachers, Aides, Parents and Students.

School Guidance Curriculum (through classroom lessons and individual/group counseling)

Goal setting and decision-making
Education on understanding self and others
Peer relationships, coping strategies and effective social skills
Communication, problem-solving and conflict resolution
Diversity awareness
Individual Student Planning (though parent/student meetings, individual counseling)

Academic planning
Goal setting/decision- making
Education on understanding of self, including strengths and weaknesses
Transition plans
Responsive Services

Individual and small-group counseling
Individual/family/school crisis intervention
Conflict resolution
Consultation/collaboration
Referrals
System Support

Professional development
Consultation, collaboration and teaming
Program management and operation
** Counseling is a voluntary service **

American School Counselor Association. Reserved