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A high-quality education is one of the most important things that we can provide a child. Exposure to a variety of topics,
people, and adventures all contribute to a fulfilling school experience.
The Guidance and Counseling Department at Whitman Middle is staffed with professional educators committed to assisting
students, teachers, parents and administrators. The role of the counselor is to contribute to the effective operation of the
school by promoting and assisting students in academic, social and emotional growth and development.
The mission of the Whitman Middle School Guidance Department
is to encourage the development of each student's academic potential and promote growth in the areas of personal, social,
and civic responsibility.
It is the primary purpose of the guidance program at
Whitman
Middle School to provide, as best it can, opportunities for the fullest
possible development of each individual student. By means of counseling and testing, the students discover their interest,
abilities, and potential, so that they are able to make intelligent decisions throughout their future. Students should review
their plans and goals on an ongoing basis and discuss them fully with their parents, teachers, and counselors, so that the
wisest possible choices are made to meet each individual's needs.
The following is a description of the role of a guidance counselor in a middle school setting and was taken
from the American School Counseling Association website:
Middle school students
are characterized by rapid physical growth, curiosity about their world and an emerging self-identity. Through a comprehensive
developmental school counseling program, counselors work as a team member with school staff, parents and the community to
create a caring, supportive climate and atmosphere whereby young adolescents can achieve academic success. Middle school counselors
enhance the learning process and promote academic achievement. School counseling programs are essential for students to achieve
optimal personal growth, acquire positive social skills and values, set appropriate career goals and realize full academic
potential to become productive, contributing members of the world community. The professional middle school counselor holds
a master’s degree and required state certification in school counseling. Maintaining certification includes on-going
professional development to stay current with education reform and challenges facing today’s students. |
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