The Developmental Needs of High School Students
High school is a time of decisions. Students are deciding who they are, where they fit, what they are good at and how to move forward. Socialization is the key word. During this time in high school, students are characterized by:

• Searching and evaluating their strengths, skills and abilities
• Tuning into peer acceptance and feedback
• Separating from parents/family to explore and define their independence
• Planning for the future

A Comprehensive And Developmental Program
Services provided students are connected to a comprehensive counseling model, which focuses on the needs of the students in three areas of development: academic, career and personal/social. These areas are interrelated and cannot be addressed in isolation. Comprehensive, developmental counseling services are designed for all students.

High School Counselors Believe

• Young people have dignity and worth as human beings.
• Young people need to experience significance in their school and community.
• Young people have the ability to succeed and become contributing members of our society.
• Young people need guidance and support from school, parents and community as they seek to find their place in society.
• Schools, parents and communities that communicate and collaborate provide the most effective support to young people.

High School Counselors

• Provide direct counseling services to students individually and in support groups.
• Provide education and support services to parents.
• Provide consultation services to teachers.
• Provide staff inservice.
• Facilitate referrals to community support services.
• Advise students on academic planning.
• Provide career guidance to students.
• Provide career information to parents.
• Maintain an up-to-date library of career and post-secondary school information.
• Network with post-secondary schools.
• Serve on school and community committees addressing the needs of young people.

Why High School Counselors?
High school years are full of excitement, frustration, disappointment and hope. It is a time students begin to discover what the future holds for them. With a comprehensive developmental counseling program, students can receive accurate information, concrete experiences and successful planning to take the steps necessary to become productive, contributing members of society. Together, professional school counselors, parents and the community can provide the most effective support for young people.