Our vision as a counseling team at EKIS is for all our students to learn in a safe and equitable environment, where all students are a part of a valued and respected learning community. Each student's individual needs are met and all stakeholders are accountable for guiding, supporting, and developing life-long learners who are caring, conscientious, productive, and contributing members of society.

As a counseling team at EKIS, our mission is to provide a comprehensive developmental counseling program for all students K-8th. It is our goal to help all our students attain their highest academic and career goals and become socially/emotionally aware and conscientious individuals through safe, equitable, and constructive learning environment with success for all students by providing them the opportunities to hear and learn about educational institutions, programs, and individuals from high school and beyond. As key stakeholders in a collaborative effort with our learning community, we help to develop confident, self-advocating, life-long learners who are college, career ready individuals in an ever changing world.

The role of a school counselor, as outlined by the ASCA (American School Counselor Association) national model, encompasses various responsibilities to support students' academic, social, and emotional development. Here's a summary with bulleted points:

• Academic Guidance:

  • Assist students in developing academic goals and plans.

    Guide course selection and career pathways.

    Monitor and address academic progress and challenges.

• Social-Emotional Support:

  • Foster a positive school environment conducive to emotional well-being.

    Offer counseling services to address students' social and emotional concerns.

    Promote interpersonal skills and conflict resolution.

• Career Development:

  • Facilitate exploration of career options and interests.

    Provide information on post-secondary education and career pathways.

    Assist in developing career-related skills and goals.

• Individual and Group Counseling:

  • Conduct one-on-one counseling sessions to address personal challenges.

    Facilitate group counseling sessions for specific issues or concerns.

    Implement interventions to enhance students' social skills.

• Advocacy and Collaboration:

  • Advocate for students' needs within the school community.

    Collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to support student success.

    Play a key role in creating a positive and inclusive school culture.

• Crisis Intervention:

  • Provide immediate support and intervention during crises.

    Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to address emergencies.

    Implement strategies to help students cope with traumatic events.

• Data Analysis and Assessment:

  • Utilize data to assess the effectiveness of counseling programs.

    Analyze academic and behavioral trends to inform decision-making.

    Continuously evaluate and improve counseling services based on outcomes.