National School Counseling Week

By Edmondson Elementary School Counselor Nancy Rose

National School Counseling Week, sponsored by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), will be celebrated February 6–10.  The week will focus attention on the unique contribution of professional school counselors within school systems and how students are different as a result of what school counselors do.  National School Counseling Week highlights the tremendous impact school counselors can have in helping students achieve school success and plan for a career.

"This week provides recognition for school counselors who implement comprehensive school counseling programs," said Williamson County Schools Counseling Specialist Pam Lankford.  "These programs are a vital part of the educational process for all students as they meet the challenges of the 21st century."

Lankford said WCS school counselors provide a number of services which include helping students examine their abilities, strengths, interests and talents; working in a partnership with parents as they encounter the challenges of raising children in today's world; focusing on positive ways to enhance students' social/personal, educational and career development; and working with teachers and other educators to provide an educational system where students can realize their potential and set healthy, realistic and optimistic aspirations for themselves.  Professional school counselors are certified, experienced educators with a master's degree in guidance and counseling. The combination of their training and experience makes them an integral part of the total educational program.

More than 29,000 school counselors nationwide will be participating in the week's festivities.  Williamson County Schools has 28 elementary counselors, 21 middle school counselors and 34 high school counselors.  Many school counselors will be hosting special events and activities to call attention to the many benefits of a comprehensive school counseling program.  Check with your child’s school to see what wonderful things are happening through the school counseling program.