During this time of financial uncertainty, with our schools facing a projected $12.5 million shortfall, Mr. Hanna’s job should be one of giving families a sense of calm and ensuring us that despite cuts, our children will continue to get a great education because we have great teachers.. However, after addressing the media, the community is so unnerved and more are deciding to jump ship and go to private or charter schools. This seems to be counterproductive to trying to keep the funds in our district. One scare tactic Hanna has used is to threaten the jobs of your school counselor and social worker. For those who do not understand their jobs, here is a basic description of what each position does at every level:
Elementary School Counselor/Social Worker (who assists with mental health/conflicts/groups)
Elementary school counselors support students’ academic, emotional, and social growth during these foundational years. They work with students individually, in small groups, and frequently within classrooms to deliver age-appropriate lessons on self-esteem, conflict resolution, friendship skills, and navigating different types of relationships—whether with family, peers, or within the school community.
Counselors also collaborate with teachers and families to identify and support students who may be facing academic, behavioral, or emotional challenges. Through early intervention, participation in IEPs and support meetings, and connection to resources, they help ensure every child has what they need to thrive.
Additionally, elementary counselors are key contributors to a positive school climate. From running anti-bullying programs to providing guidance during times of crisis, they help create a safe, inclusive environment where all students feel seen, supported, and ready to learn.
The Role of the Middle School Counselor/Social Worker (who assists with mental health/conflicts/groups)
Middle school is a critical and often difficult time for students, marked by rapid social, emotional, and hormonal changes. During this stage, students may face increased stress, peer pressure, and feelings of self-doubt. Middle school counselors are trained to support students through these challenges by providing individual and group counseling, helping them develop healthy coping skills, manage emotions, and build positive relationships.
Counselors also assist with academic planning, course selection, and interventions for struggling students. They guide students in exploring career interests and setting long-term goals. Through classroom lessons, they teach essential life skills such as decision-making, conflict resolution, and self-awareness.
Working closely with teachers, families, and school staff, counselors help create a safe and supportive environment. They participate in student support meetings, 504 plans, and intervention teams to ensure each student’s needs are addressed. In times of crisis, they offer immediate support and may coordinate with outside agencies for additional care.
Counselors also analyze student data—such as grades, attendance, and behavior—to identify trends and develop targeted supports. As advocates, they ensure all students have equitable access to resources and the opportunity to succeed both academically and personally.
The Role of the High School Counselor/Social Worker (who assists with mental health/conflicts/groups)
High school counselors serve as essential guides during a pivotal time in students’ lives—helping them navigate academic challenges, personal growth, and future planning. As students face increasing pressure from academics, social dynamics, and life decisions, counselors provide individual and group support focused on emotional well-being, resilience, and healthy relationships.
Academically, counselors assist students with course selection, credit tracking, and graduation planning. They offer interventions for those falling behind and ensure that every student has access to the resources needed to succeed. Career and college readiness is a major focus, with counselors guiding students through career exploration, college applications, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities.
To stay informed and best support families, high school counselors meet regularly with representatives from state university systems to review admission trends and data from recently admitted classes. With college admissions growing increasingly competitive, counselors use this information to help families make informed decisions and give students the strongest chance of being admitted to their preferred schools.
In addition, counselors stay up to date on legislative changes that affect students in areas such as curriculum requirements, Bright Futures Scholarships, attendance policies, and testing. By remaining current on these evolving guidelines, they ensure that students and families receive accurate, timely information that can impact graduation and postsecondary opportunities.
High school counselors also collaborate closely with teachers, administrators, and parents. They participate in IEP and 504 meetings, serve on intervention teams, and respond to crises—coordinating with outside agencies when needed. Through ongoing data analysis on grades, attendance, and behavior, they develop targeted supports to address individual and school-wide needs.
As advocates, high school counselors are committed to equity and access. They work to ensure that every student is equipped—academically, emotionally, and socially—for a successful transition into adulthood, whether through college, career, or other pathways.
If these positions are reduced or eliminated, who will be responsible for assisting children with mental health, grade issues and future decisions. All these things are ever-changing and are we going to task each parent with knowing the latest information? Are parents going to help teachers with course progressions and decide what classes to offer in the future? If we have students who do not have much parental involvement, aren’t they the ones who need the most help but will not have it if each parent is responsible for their own child?
