School Counselors Help Students Dream Big
National School Counseling Week 2023, “School Counselors: Helping Students Dream Big,” sponsored by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), will be celebrated at Hutto ISD from Feb. 6–10, 2023, to focus public attention on the unique contribution of 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.
“The special week honoring school counselors provides recognition for school counselors who implement comprehensive school counseling programs, a vital part of the educational process for all students as they meet the challenges of the 21st century,” said Superintendent Dr. Celina Estrada Thomas.
“Hutto ISD school counselors are actively engaged in helping students examine their abilities, strengths, interests and talents,” said Jennifer Ashman-Porter, Director of Student Services at Hutto ISD. They work in a partnership with parents as they encounter the challenges of raising children in today’s world and focus on positive ways to enhance students’ academic, career and social/emotional development, in addition to work with teachers and other educators to provide an educational system where students can realize their potential and set healthy, realistic and optimistic aspirations for themselves, added Porter.
School counselors are certified, experienced educators with a master’s degree in school 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 options and social/emotional skills,” said Jill Cook, ASCA executive director. “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.”
Parents or community members with specific questions, concerns, or expressions of gratitude about Hutto ISD’s school counseling programs should contact the school counselors at their student’s school. More general information about National School Counseling Week can also be found on ASCA’s website, www.schoolcounselor.org.