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Connecting with Your Child’s School Counselor for a Successful
School Year
1. Understand the expertise and responsibilities of your
child’s school counselor. School counselors make a measurable
impact in every student’s life, assisting with academic, career and
personal/social development. Professional school counselors are
trained in both educating and counseling, allowing them to function as a
facilitator between parents, teachers and the student in matters concerning
the student’s goals, abilities and any areas needing improvement. School
counselors provide services not only to students in need, but to all
students.
2. Meet or contact your child’s school counselor at least
three times per school year. The beginning of a school year is an
excellent opportunity to initiate contact with your child’s school
counselor and doing so can ensure your child’s positive school experience.
Find out who the counselor is and what his or her experience and background
are. By communicating with one another at the beginning, middle, and
end of the school year, parents and counselors can have a definite impact
on a child’s success.
3. Discuss your child’s challenges and concerns with the
school counselor. As a parent, you know your child best.
However, the school counselor can help you better understand your child as
a student. It’s important to encourage your child’s expression of
needs, hopes and frustrations. School counselors are trained to help
your children.
4. Learn about your child’s school and social connections
from the school counselor. When you need information or
assistance, your child’s school counselor can help you get in touch with
the appropriate school officials; learn about school policies on behavior,
attendance, and dress; know the school calendar of important dates and stay
connected with the school in many other ways. The school counselor can also
help you locate resources in the community when you need them.
5. Work with the school counselor to identify resources and
find solutions to problems. If your child is having a problem at
school, it is important to work with your child’s school counselor to find
solutions. Discuss resources available within and outside of the
school, and get information on how such programs can benefit your child.
Your school counselor can be a valuable partner in your child’s education
and preparation for life beyond school.
Taken from American School Counseling Association:
http://www.schoolcounselor.org/content.asp?pl=327&sl=419&contentid=419
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