By Dr. Akil E. Ross, Sr.
Superintendent
February is a month filled with observances that enrich our school calendar, including Black History Month, Youth Leadership Month, National Children’s Dental Health Month, National Girls and Women’s Sports Day, and Random Acts of Kindness Week. Among these, the first week of February stands out as National School Counseling Week. This week provides an opportunity for our district to honor and highlight the essential role school counselors play in student success.
School District Five is fortunate to have 52 dedicated counselors who work tirelessly every day to support academic achievement. They provide students with strategies for effective learning, help manage emotions, and teach critical self-regulation tools and skills. These professionals also make referrals for both short- and long-term support and advocate for individual student needs while assisting with academic planning.
For seniors, school counselors provide invaluable guidance as they plan for postsecondary goals and navigate the transition to life after high school. National School Counseling Week raises awareness of the significant contributions school counseling teams make within their school communities. In a recent video, School District Five’s school counselors and career specialists were rightfully named “champions of student success.” This recognition emphasizes gratitude for the often-unsung heroes who nurture and support students every day.
School District Five counselors are central to achieving our vision of loving and growing students. They play a pivotal role in ensuring students feel valued and can grow academically and emotionally. Our counselors provide a broad range of support, including emotional regulation skills and advocacy for academic and career planning. All of these supports are foundational to student growth.
As we celebrate National School Counseling Week, let us take a moment to express our gratitude to our counselors. They are instrumental in shaping our students’ futures and providing support that extends beyond academics. Their work ensures that every student has the tools to succeed in school and in life.
Counselors are not just guides; they are advocates, mentors, and champions who help students navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Their dedication reflects our district’s commitment to fostering an environment where every student can thrive.
In conclusion, let us come together to recognize and celebrate the vital contributions of our school counselors. Their work is integral to our district’s mission to nurture and develop well-rounded students. As we move forward, let us continue to support and appreciate the invaluable work they do every day.
