School Counselor Job Description

A school counselor's job duties may vary based on where he or she is employed, but the duties of a typical school counselor can include:⁵

• Developing, implementing and managing school guidance programs
• Working with students in individual, small group and classroom settings
• Assisting students with creating an academic plan for their education
• Helping students plan for college and a successful career after graduation
• Working with students to develop critical life skills such as organization and time management
• Helping students work through difficult situations, such as a divorce or death in the family
• Collaborating with other educators and administrators to ensure counseling programs meet school goals
• Monitoring and recording student progress to ensure counseling programs are effective

Studies have shown that the role of the school counselor is essential to any school's leadership team. One 2004 study which analyzed Florida students in grades five through nine found that "students in schools with a comprehensive guidance program scored significantly better on state standardized tests for reading and math."⁶ Another 2007 study concluded that "school counselors provide solutions to help curb rates of school failure and dropout by addressing broader contexts that include personal, social, emotional and career development."⁷

In order to meet the demands of professional school counseling, the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) has outlined the core competencies needed by 21st-century school counselors. Among other things, these competencies include:⁸

• Thorough understanding of the American educational system, including social, cultural and political influences on educational practices
• Knowledge of the organizational structure and elements of a successful school counseling program, in alignment with the ASCA National Model
• Understanding of leadership theories and principles, developmental theory, social justice theory, learning theories, multiculturalism and career counseling theories
• Knowledge of the full continuum of mental health care services, such as prevention and intervention
• Thorough understanding of barriers to student learning and the use of counseling strategies to eliminate those barriers
• Knowledge of individual counseling, group counseling and classroom instruction that promote academic achievement
• Understanding of the legal, professional and ethical issues that affect American schools

• M.S. in Counseling
• How to Become a School Counselor