In public elementary schools, the school guidance counselor, who may be one of the teachers seem to not be able to play the role of a school counselor frequently. But there are so many problems at varying degrees of students that needs counseling. These problems might include bullies at school, problems at home, and failing grades. A school counselor would be a great service provider available anytime to help students, parents, and teachers have successful school experiences.
A school counselor plays many different roles. He/she can help in developing a positive social, emotional, and academic well-being of students. The school counselor can support students with their study skills and help them handle properly bullying and peer pressure. A good counselor provides positive affirmation of students’ possibilities and make options for them as well as provide them a sense of possible direction.
With that in mind, a good school counselor should not spread himself/herself thin. These steps can help a teacher become an effective and caring school counselor:
1. Privacy and confidentiality is of utmost importance. Make students and parents feel that when you talk to them about a problem, they are respected. Never preach on a student in the hallways when they misbehave. As for the parents, it is always crucial to let them know ahead of time what matters you would like to discuss with them regarding their children’s status in school.
2. An issue should be faced head on instead of parents transferring their children to another school and running away from the problem. This will not solve anything and the family would feel they are of no worth to the school which, of course, should never be true under all circumstances.
3. Always be at the natural and be fair. Be professional at all times. You are a mediator towards peace in the school and progress of the students. Keeping an affirmative tone when playing your role can make all the difference in the lives of the students, their families, and your co-teachers.
References:
Griffin, Joseph; Tyrrell, Ivan. Human Givens: A New Approach to Emotional Health and Clear Thinking. East Sussex: Human Givens Publishing. Retrieved June 3, 2014.
Schellenberg, R. (2007). Standards blending: Aligning school counseling programs with school academic achievement missions. Virginia Counselors Journal, 29, 13-20.
Schmidt, J.J. (2003) Counseling in schools: Essential services and comprehensive programs. 4th ed. Boston: Allyn & Bacon.
By: MARIA MAY S. FORIO | MT-I | BEPZ Elementary School | Mariveles, Bataan
