Vision

The vision of the Eastwood Middle School counseling program is that all students are academically, emotionally, and socially prepared to be productive successful citizens in our community.  They are fully prepared to pursue college and/or career opportunities, fluent in two or more languages.  We collaborate with administration, teachers, staff, and parents to support and guide our students to continue their life-long goals including their creative, intellectual and athletic passion.

Mission

The Mission of the EMS Raiders school counseling program is to deliver a proactive, comprehensive, and developmental program that addresses academic, personal, and social/emotional, and career readiness.  Our program will include school-wide activities, individual and small group counseling and whole group lessons. We provide a safe and nurturing environment where every student is empowered to overcome adversities, contribute to society, and become positive forces in the community while reaching lifelong learning.

The role of a school counselor, as outlined by the ASCA (American School Counselor Association) national model, 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.