Throughout the state of Florida, this week is celebrated as Student Services Week to laud the contributions of student services professionals. School counselors, school nurses, school psychologists and school social workers dedicate their efforts to supporting the academic, behavioral, social, physical, mental and emotional development of all students. In sync with this is National School Counseling Week, sponsored by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA). Both are celebrated from Feb. 1–5, 2016, with the latter honing special public attention on the unique contribution of professional school counselors within U.S. 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.
According to Executive Director of Student Services and Exceptional Student Education Bill Tomlinson, “This special week honors those who implement comprehensive school counseling and support programs — vital components of the educational process for all students as they meet the challenges of the 21st century.”
These professionals help students examine their abilities, strengths, interests and talents; work in partnership with parents as they encounter the challenges of raising children in today’s world; focus on positive ways to enhance students’ social and personal education and career development; and work with teachers and other educators to help students realize their potential and set healthy, realistic, and optimistic aspirations for themselves. Professional school counselors are certified, experienced educators with specialized training in guidance and counseling. The combination of their training and experience makes them an integral part of the total educational program.
“School counselors work with all students to remove barriers to learning by addressing students’ academic concerns, career awareness in post-secondary options and personal/social skills,” said Kwok-Sze Wong, Ed.D., ASCA executive director. “Comprehensive school counseling programs help to increase student achievement and provide a much-needed resource for students, parents, teachers and administrators. School counselors are integral to student success.”
About St. Lucie Public Schools
The mission of St. Lucie Public Schools is to ensure all students graduate from safe and caring schools equipped with the knowledge, skills and desire to succeed. For more information visit, www.stlucieschools.org or contact Kerry Padrick at kerry.padrick@stlucieschools.org.
###
