About DeSoto ISD Counselors & Services

apple What is a professional school counselor? 
The role of the DeSoto ISD counselors is to help all students at their local campuses fully develop their academic, career, personal, and social abilities. School counselors work with the school faculty and staff, students, parents, and the community to plan, implement, and evaluate developmental guidance and counseling programs for all students. 
(TEC. Section 33.005)
 
 apple  What are their qualifications?
 DeSoto ISD counselors are state-certified professionals with a master’s degree in counseling that have a minimum of two years of classroom teaching experience. They must have passed a state mandated test and received certification from the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC). Counselors continue their professional development by attending workshops and conferences on an ongoing basis.
 apple  What does a school counselor do? 
  • Counsel individuals and small groups of students to meet identified needs.  
  • Deliver the guidance curriculum and assist teachers with the school’s guidance curriculum.
  • Consult with parents, teachers, and other staff regarding concerns about student’s needs.
  • Coordinate people and resources in the community for the benefit of students.
  • Participate in planning, implementing and evaluating a comprehensive developmental guidance and counseling program to serve all students.
  • Know about and adhere to the ethical, legal, and professional standards of the counseling profession. 
 apple  How does a student contact the counselor?
 Students may come by or contact the counseling office anytime to make an appointment or speak with a counselor. Students may also be referred to a counselor by a teacher, administrator, staff member, parent, or peer. Counselors may also request to visit with a student based on observations or concern with a student’s behavior or actions.