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Bullying is hostile behavior that is intentional and It is a repeated behavior that can be physical, verbal, or relational. Bullying has been part of school for years. More recently, though, technology and social media have created a new venue for bullying that has expanded its reach.  Therefore, as a school counselor I must be committed to preventing and stopping bullying to ensure students are a part of a safe environment where they can thrive, socially and academically, without being afraid.

Students who have a clear understanding of what bullying is, what it looks like, and how it effects students are more likely to refrain from bullying and to take appropriate action to stop it when they see it. As school counselors we play a huge part in helping to create safer schools and communities by teaching students about bullying. Through the teaching and exposing students to bully it may help prevent issues within and outside of the classroom.  We must teach kids that mistreating anyone is wrong whether it be in person, online, or through text/phone.

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Upon completing the School Counselor Competency Assessment, I realized that while I’m familiar with some of the expectations of a school counselor, I found that I had little to no knowledge in some of the categories. As a future school counselor, I understand this assessment is beneficial to overall well-being of the students I will serve.  It will provide opportunities to self-assess my knowledge, attitudes and skills that are essential to perform my responsibilities both effectively and efficiently.
The overall glow for me was understanding and embracing the professional beliefs of a school counselor.  It was one of the areas that I felt I was most familiar with and scored higher in. There were several areas I can and look forward to growing in.  As a future school counselor, it is important I become familiar with the legal and ethical aspect to ensure my effectiveness in serving my students, the school, administration, parents and other stakeholders.

References:

American School Counselor Association (2019). The ASCA National Model: A framework for school counseling programs (4th ed.)

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As a school counselor, I believe I have a responsibility to serve every student within my school.  All students have the ability to be high achievers and are entitled to a quality education to prepare them for life beyond school.  I believe all students have the ability to achieve and pursue their dreams.  In order for students to reach their full potential, an all-inclusive school counseling program is essential to the education of all students.  I'm committed to pursuing professional development to ensure I stay current and relevant in order to best serve the whole child.

My vision is that all students will achieve academic success, social emotional growth, and will attain a fulfilling career in the future that is aligned with their interests and abilities. Students will be prepared to function as empowered members of our community where they show empathy, compassion, and respect for all.

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Article Reflection:

The Impact of School Counselor Resources in Elementary and Middle Grades

I choose this article as it serves as a reminder of how necessary school counselors are in both elementary and middle grade levels.  This article supports the important contribution of elementary and middle school counselors to student success. School counselors are uniquely positioned within the education system to ensure that all students meet developmental needs in academic, career, and social emotional areas in order to become successful and contributing members of society. School counselors collaborate with other school staff and parents/caregivers to ensure that students finish high school and are well-equipped for the challenges of the future.

This article provides data to support the influence that both elementary and middle level school counselors have on the student success.  Students who have greater access to school counselors and all-inclusive school counseling programs are more likely to succeed academically and behaviorally in school; this is particular true for students in high-poverty schools.

Studies show that stronger presence of school counselors in elementary schools reduces misbehavior and significantly improves boys’ academic achievement.

School counselors in the elementary and middle schools have a great responsibility in creating and implementing supportive programs that build well-rounded students.  They are essential as they continue to make a huge positive impact difference in the lives of students in various ways.

Reference

Domina, T., Akos, P., Bastian, K. C., & Godwin, J. (2022). The Impact of School Counselor Resources in Elementary and Middle Grades. Professional School Counseling, 26(1a). https://doi.org/10.1177/2156759X221086746

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The impact of School Counselor Resources