School social workers address the psychological and social issues that can prevent academic progress. Through counseling and prevention programs, they help to curb the impact of problems students face outside of the classroom, such as poverty, substance abuse, sexual activity and gang violence. A gay teen, for instance, may speak to a school social worker to help him cope with the bullying he faces from his peers. A student with abusive parents may speak to a school social worker to help her find an innovative solution to this complex problem. Through helping students overcome the challenges they face, school social workers give them a better chance at thriving in and out of the classroom.
School social workers design programs to help children with behavioral problems, bad grades and poor attendance rates. They ask teachers to target individuals who could benefit from the program and meet with the groups of students on a regular basis. In the meetings, social workers encourage the students to discuss issues that trouble them, such as substance abuse and depression. The social worker will help them gain a better understanding of these problems and recommend places where they could seek further help. Throughout the meetings, the school social workers' bottom line is the same: no matter what issues students face, they can succeed in school. Programs, such as these, boost students' confidence and give them a greater desire to do well in school.
The school guidance counselor is a professional dedicated to developing students’ academic abilities. Guidance counselors work to improve students’ studying and test-taking abilities. They target individuals who could potentially have learning or mental disabilities and ensure they are properly diagnosed and receive intervention services. These counselors also work with teachers to help them provide support to students with disabilities. Guidance counselors motivate students who have behavioral issues to change their attitudes and reduce absentee rates.
High school guidance counselors help students select the right college. The guidance counselor will help the student throughout their high school years in selecting the courses and extracurricular activities that best fit their interests. Once students reach their junior and senior years, the guidance counselor will help them prepare for their SATs and ACTs by giving them test-taking strategies. Guidance counselors also give students advice on selecting a major. They provide information on schools that offer courses and majors that suit students’ interests and will help them fill out college applications.