Counselors fill new roles

Twenty years ago a school counselor's job was simple. Students who had questions about careers or college or had school or social issues that needed to be addressed just signed up for a next available time slot with their counselor.

Counselors were exclusive to secondary schools and were only available if a student sought them out. But their role has evolved over the years, and school districts have found needs for them on all levels.

Schools all over the country are observing National School Counselors Week this week to appreciate those who have taken on what school leaders say has become one of the most demanding and complicated jobs in the educational system.

Dawn Kay, state coordinator for curriculum and comprehensive guidance, said though budget woes in other states have reduced the number of counselors in schools, their ranks in Utah are increasing.

Traditionally the positions were only available on the secondary level, but now almost half of Utah school districts have placed counselors in the elementary schools as well.

Kay said depression and social problems are on the rise among students at all ages, and they benefit from having counselors dedicated to working with them in the lower grades.

Districts like Davis and Jordan have counselors at each elementary school, where they implement the state-developed guidance curriculum in character education.

Starting in kindergarten, children learn how to deal with social issues such as bullying, violence, gossip, decision-making, mediation and making friends during development classes taught by the counselors.

The classes don't take the place of those things learned in the home, said Debbie Wosnik, Utah School Counselors Association elementary president-elect.

However, homes are different than they used to be. People are busier now — often both parents are working — and Moms and Dads appreciate the extra help.

On the other side of the coin, secondary counselors' jobs have changed substantially.

Students no longer need to seek them out. Now the counselors do the searching.

They identify and help those who are failing, short on credits and need career and college help, as well as run programs in everything from career interests to suicide prevention. They also help provide and coordinate social and family services for those who need it.