Many people think of guidance counselors as individuals who lend a helping hand to students when they need it. However, counselors in the St. Joseph school district in Missouri are working to change the image of the profession and prove that they are more than another spot on the payroll. Recently, school counselors across the country were recognized during National School Counseling Week, a period dedicated to honoring all that the administrators do, according to the St. Joseph News-Press. However, the 33 individuals who hold the profession in the district wanted to shed light on their contributions to students and the community. "School counselors are there to assist every student," Cindy Crouse, St. Joseph school district coordinator of guidance and counseling, told the news source. "In the past, people might have thought that school counselors sat back in their office, waiting for a child to come to them. We're much more proactive." Many counselors noted that the poor economy has hindered the mental health of students. These issues have needed to be addressed before moving on to academic needs. Individuals interested in becoming counselors should have a strong will to help others and be able to maintain a level of respect, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. |