Changed Impressions

As a previous school nurse, I have had opportunities to work with school counselors at elementary, middle, and high school levels and I have always been impressed with their abilities to reach and connect with students.  While I could physically treat a student with an anxiety disorder, the guidance counselor could give the student tools to avoid panic attacks. If I had to treat a student who was physically abused, and I did on far too many occasions, it was the school counselor who was my partner in making sure that every base was covered and no student fell through the cracks. I have had the privilege of experiencing their super hero tendencies. After reading the history, educational and credentialing requirements, and their current roles in Georgia education, I am even more in awe as they balance their multi-faceted roles.  Guidance counselors have a lot of bases to cover when their duties are so diverse. At every level they are treating students who need emotional guidance and other students who need career guidance, and not just the students. They are trained to incorporate the family, teachers, and administrators. The degree of knowledge they must have in just the areas of  scholarships, grants, duel enrollment, and college and career readiness is amazing! One of the things I particularly liked and had no idea was occurring was the career lessons they do with younger children. They do a whole lesson with 2nd graders on health care careers - very cool.