Connecting with Your Child’s School Counselor for a Successful
School Year
With a new school year on the horizon, many parents are concerned about
ensuring a positive experience for their child. School counselors make a
measurable impact in a student’s life, supporting their academic success,
health, and personal well-being. They provide a critical communication link
between parents and students. However a recent study by the American School
counselor Association show that more than one-third of surveyed parents
report that they have had little or no contact with their child’s school
counselor in the past school year.
The American School Counselor Association offers five “Back to School” tips
to help parents communicate and work with their child’s school counselor to
ensure 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
student in matters concerning the student’s abilities, goals, and any areas
needing improvement. School counselors not only provide services to students
in need, but all students.
2. Meet or contact your child’s school counselor to ensure your child’s
positive school experience.
The beginning of the school year is an excellent opportunity to initiate
contact with your child’s school counselor. 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 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.
