They must navigate academic, peer, and parental pressures as they face the challenges of college admissions and entrance into a competitive job market. High school counselors do not work alone, they are essential to the total educational program. High School counseling programs are necessary for students to achieve peak personal growth, acquire positive social skills and values, set informed career goals and realize their full academic potential to become productive, contributing members of the world community.

Our counselors hold a master’s degree and require state certification in school counseling. Maintaining certification includes ongoing professional development to stay current with educational reform and challenges facing today’s students.

High school years are full of growth, promise, excitement, frustration, disappointment, and hope. High school counselors help students navigate academic, career, and peer and parental pressures. While high school students are trying to figure out who they are, what peer group they fit in, what their strengths and weaknesses are, and what direction they’re leaning toward following high school graduation, school counselors help students find their own path.

School Counselors are in a unique position within a school setting. Meeting with every student to create a 4-year plan of rigorous coursework to meet graduation requirements and prepare for post-secondary success. It doesn't stop there, responding to the mental health needs of students, creating plans for success, and referring to community resources, when needed is a big part of your High School counselors. Ultimately, school counselors serve ALL students, either through classroom lessons, small groups, and/or individual meetings.

• Creating a safe and caring school culture

• Providing assisting in students’ career planning and future career-related goals

• Working with staff to encourage academic success and striving to one’s potential

• Develop mastery/learning goals

• Emphasizing the benefit of a family-community-school relationship

The high school education program is designed to provide comprehensive and appropriate instruction to all ninth through twelfth-grade students. All high school courses are aligned to state learning standards. Students are required to complete 22 credits to graduate.

High school counselors help students navigate academic, peer, and parental pressures as they face high-stakes testing, the challenges of college admissions, the scholarship and financial aid application process, and entrance into a competitive job market.

SDMyLife is an online program assisting students with navigating the career development process. To find a good match, students take interest and ability assessments. They can explore by career cluster, keyword, or school subject. Students can also research postsecondary education and training options, build a portfolio, study with Method Test Prep, and find out about scholarships opportunities.