Philosophy:
The School Counseling Program at Waterford Public Schools is founded on the belief that all students are unique. The delivery of our program is differentiated in order to support students in reaching their fullest potential in both their educational and career development. This is achieved by giving all students the opportunity to participate in educational and occupational exploration in an environment that is safe, caring and encouraging. School counselors foster collaboration between all stakeholders in this endeavor: students, staff, faculty, family and community. In doing so, school counselors establish a support system that ensures all students are equipped with the knowledge and the skills to become lifelong learners and productive members of society.
The School Counselors of Waterford Public Schools provide services to students, parents, school staff and the community through:
School counseling core curriculum: This curriculum consists of structured lessons designed to help students attain the desired competencies and to provide all students with the knowledge, attitudes and skills appropriate for their developmental level. The school counseling core curriculum is delivered systematically by school counselors in classroom and group activities.
Individual student planning: School counselors coordinate ongoing systemic activities designed to assist students in establishing personal goals and developing future plans.
Responsive services: Responsive services are activities designed to meet students’ immediate needs and concerns. Responsive services may include counseling in individual or small‐group settings or crisis response.
Indirect Student Services: Indirect services are provided on behalf of students as a result of the school counselors’ interactions with others including referrals for additional assistance, consultation and collaboration with parents, teachers, other educators and community organizations.
Adapted from the American School Counselor Association National Model