National School Counseling Week is Feb. 2-6, so this week we are shining the spotlight on how school counselors amplify success. Today, our Vestal Middle School counselors tell us how they support students through social, emotional, and academic changes, manage peer pressure, prepare for high school and more. Click on the link to read the Q & A with VMS counselors Caleb Dorwart, Ashley Zotter-Farrell, and Alyssa Williams.

 

What are the biggest challenges students face during the middle school years?

 

Students face significant social, emotional, and academic changes during this period. Common challenges often include friendship changes, adjusting to increased independence and managing increased academic rigor.

 

How do you support students through social, emotional, and academic changes?

Counselors address these areas by identifying them as core components of a student's middle school experience. Counselors typically use individual counseling, small group sessions, and classroom lessons to provide support. Counselors also work closely with student’s families, as well as school staff to help support students through these changes.

 

How do you help students manage friendships, peer pressure, and conflict?

Helping students navigate friendships, peer pressure, and conflict is a central task for middle school counselors. Generally, counselors teach conflict resolution skills and healthy communication strategies to help students navigate peer dynamics.

 

What role do you play in helping students prepare for high school?

This preparation includes academic planning, career exploration, and helping students understand graduation requirements. The counselor works with all 8^th grade students to complete a detailed 9^th grade plan for high school.

All students have individual annual meetings with their school counselor to discuss academic expectations and career planning. Counselors also do classroom lessons at all grade levels that include transition planning, career exploration activities and a review of course requirements/options.

 

How do you collaborate with teachers and administrators to support students?

Counselors collaborate with school staff to create a cohesive support network and ensure student needs are met across all environments. This collaboration often includes developing intervention plans, meeting with teachers to discuss student needs and communicating with families.