Counselor’s Corner
by CHARLOTTE WINKELMANN

When we hear about school counselors there may be mixed thoughts about what the school counselor really does. What do school counselors do for students and parents? As a parent, you may have good, bad or no experience with a school counselor in your past. It is important to know that a school counselor can provide a vast array of services to make your student’s school journey a positive one.

Services the Hays Consolidated ISD counselors provide:
• a systematic, developmental campus guidance plan based on a campus needs assessment,
• counseling for students in groups or individually,
• referrals for students to special programs and services if necessary,
• help with individual school, college and career plans, school-to-work initiatives, and work with post-secondary institutions,
• assistance with students and parents about the college application process, scholarships and financial aid,
• assistance in setting up conferences with students, parents, and school staff and assistance with students and parents when students are having trouble with attendance, grades, personal or school issues.

Although counselors do not provide therapy or long-term counseling, they can assist in referrals to outside agencies if necessary.

Parents are always encouraged to contact the school counselor to help their children with a variety of issues. Examples of such issues could be academic achievement, new school registration, school orientation and transition, motivation, decision-making, goal-setting, problem-solving, self-understanding, self-confidence, communication skills, student crisis situations, family transition, and higher education concerns.

School counselors offer options, including better ways to communicate with your student. Both parents and counselors share information and establish a relationship to help the student. They are a resource for the parent. The first goal of a school counselor is to be the student advocate.

All HCISD school counselors have both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in education and counseling and at least two years teaching experience. They also have to be certified by the State of Texas.

As the school year approaches, consider contacting your student’s school counselor early in the next school year to ask them how you can be more involved in investing in your student’s education and future. As parents, you are the most important resource for the school counselor as they work with your student. Your involvement is critical in helping your student be successful.