Philadelphia is reportedly considering an overhaul of its guidance counseling system with an eye on improving the impact these professionals can have on the lives of students. A recent article in the Philadelphia Inquirer describes a plan laid out by school superintendent Arlene Ackerman called "Imagine 2014" that would lower the student-counselor ratio in the city's schools while emphasizing college more and providing students with adult advocates. Another part of the plan would reportedly ensure that at least one counselor continues to serve the same students as they advance from grade to grade. "We should prepare them with the rigor that will allow them to make choices when they graduate," guidance director Wilfredo Ortiz told the newspaper. If you've considered a career in school counseling, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that demand will grow by 13 percent in the coming years. The BLS notes that some prospective counselors could be set back by government funding issues. However, the agency also notes that there may be some forthcoming government efforts to reduce the ratio of counselors to students.  |