Purpose

The J.M. Hanks High School Counseling Program strives to ensure all students gain the academic and social-emotional skills to become lifelong learners, empathetic leaders, and resilient citizens. The counseling department supports our school's vision and mission by promoting a school counseling program rooted in a shared collaboration and responsible decision-making so all students can achieve success in post-secondary education and careers that contribute to their community.

The role of a school counselor, as outlined by the ASCA (American School Counselor Association) National Model and the Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling , encompasses various responsibilities to support students' academic, social, and emotional development. Here's a summary with bulleted points:

• Academic Guidance:

  • Assist students in developing academic goals and plans.

  • Guide course selection and career pathways.

  • Monitor and address academic progress and challenges.

• Social-Emotional Support:

  • Foster a positive school environment conducive to emotional well-being.

  • Offer counseling services to address students' social and emotional concerns.

  • Promote interpersonal skills and conflict resolution.

• Career Development:

  • Facilitate exploration of career options and interests.

  • Provide information on post-secondary education and career pathways.

  • Assist in developing career-related skills and goals.

• Individual and Group Counseling:

  • Conduct one-on-one counseling sessions to address personal challenges.

  • Facilitate group counseling sessions for specific issues or concerns.

  • Implement interventions to enhance students' social skills.

• Advocacy and Collaboration:

  • Advocate for students' needs within the school community.

  • Collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to support student success.

  • Play a key role in creating a positive and inclusive school culture.

• Crisis Intervention:

  • Provide immediate support and intervention during crises.

  • Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to address emergencies.

  • Implement strategies to help students cope with traumatic events.

• Data Analysis and Assessment:

  • Utilize data to assess the effectiveness of counseling programs.

  • Analyze academic and behavioral trends to inform decision-making.

  • Continuously evaluate and improve counseling services based on outcomes.nd improve counseling services based on outcomes.