Foundation

=**__Foundation__**=

**I. Belie****fs and Philosophy**
//The School Counselors Believe:// Learning is a lifelong process All students have the ability to achieve and should have equitable access to the comprehensive school counseling program Using reliable data to make decisions helps to address the needs and expectations of our community stakeholders The school, home, and community can foster positive student self-image through a collaborative effort, which leads to responsible and productive citizenship A comprehensive school counseling program is not simply a support service but an essential aspect of the total education program

//Our Comprehensive School Counseling Program Will:// Build connections between, school, home and the community Focus on developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities to support learning Use empirical measures to determine effective services and evaluate the needs our students Recognize the diversity that exists in our school within school counseling curriculum and services

//Our Professional School Counselors Will:// Adhere to a professional code of ethics //(as outlined by The American School Counseling Association)// Treat all students with dignity and respect Be an advocate for all students Strive to provide all students with the skills they need to be successful in academic, social and career development Participate in professional development activities in an effort to maintain a high quality school counseling program which aligns with the current trends set forth in the field of school counseling

**II. Mission Statement**
Our mission is to empower all students to reach their full potential while supporting their growth in academics, social and emotional development and career preparation. We will endeavor to prepare students to be life-long learners as well as responsible citizens. We will advocate on behalf of students as well as strive to form collaborative partnerships with parents, school staff members and the community to facilitate student success and growth. We recognize that student success and growth are best nourished in a safe environment and we will work to foster a school environment that supports individual differences while celebrating diversity.

**III. ASCA Content Standards for Student Academic, Career and Personal/Social Development**
The ASCA National Standards for Students: Competencies we chose to expand on (reference p. 102 in the ASCA National Model book):
 * __Academic Development Domain__: **A:A2**
 * Standard A:** Students will acquire the attitudes, knowledge and skills that contribute to effective learning in school and across the lifespan
 * Competency 2:** Acquire Skills for Improving Learning
 * __Career Development__: **C:A1**
 * Standard A:** Students will acquire the skills to investigate the world of work in relation to knowledge of self and to make informed career decisions
 * Competency 1:** Develop Career Awareness
 * __Personal/Social Domain__: **PS:A2**
 * Standard A:** Students will acquire the knowledge, attitudes and interpersonal skills to help them understand and respect self and others
 * Competency 2:** Acquire Interpersonal Skills