Vision

Our vision of the School Counseling Program at Dolphin Terrace Elementary is to facilitate instruction by removing impediments to student’s learning through individual planning system guiding all students as they plan, monitor, and manage their own educational, career and personal-social development; responsive services component intervening on behalf of those students whose immediate personal concerns or problems put their continued personal-social, career, and/or educational development at risk. Our students acquire and personally incorporate intrinsic strength and skills that are necessary for them to also achieve our district guidance and counseling vision, “The Department of School Counseling ensures equitable access to and delivery of a rigorous education for all students by providing the strongest academic, emotional, and social support for each student while building partnerships with family and community members.” Through the services provided with the school counseling program we will ensure all our students are ready to use their social/emotional, academic and career skills necessary for success five to fifteen years from now.

Mission

Dolphin Terrace guidance mission is to facilitate students’ normal growth and development, promote academic achievement and positive mental health, and assist students in acquiring and using life career skills. The guidance curriculum follows the ASCA National Model which will aid, guide, and be equally available to all students in acquiring career, academic, social/emotional competencies. This curriculum is presented to the entire class or to small group, or with individual students to ensure all students who enroll in our YISD schools will graduate from high school, fluent in two or more languages, prepared and inspired to continue their education in a four year college, university or institution of higher education so that they become successful citizens in their community to achieve their full potential and fully participate now and in the future in the social, economic, and educational opportunities of our state and nation.

The role of a school counselor, as outlined by the ASCA (American School Counselor Association) national model, encompasses various responsibilities to support students' academic, social, and emotional development. Here's a summary with bulleted points:

• Academic Guidance:

  • Assist students in developing academic goals and plans.

    Guide course selection and career pathways.

    Monitor and address academic progress and challenges.

• Social-Emotional Support:

  • Foster a positive school environment conducive to emotional well-being.

    Offer counseling services to address students' social and emotional concerns.

    Promote interpersonal skills and conflict resolution.

• Career Development:

  • Facilitate exploration of career options and interests.

    Provide information on post-secondary education and career pathways.

    Assist in developing career-related skills and goals.

• Individual and Group Counseling:

  • Conduct one-on-one counseling sessions to address personal challenges.

    Facilitate group counseling sessions for specific issues or concerns.

    Implement interventions to enhance students' social skills.

• Advocacy and Collaboration:

  • Advocate for students' needs within the school community.

    Collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to support student success.

    Play a key role in creating a positive and inclusive school culture.

• Crisis Intervention:

  • Provide immediate support and intervention during crises.

    Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to address emergencies.

    Implement strategies to help students cope with traumatic events.

• Data Analysis and Assessment:

  • Utilize data to assess the effectiveness of counseling programs.

    Analyze academic and behavioral trends to inform decision-making.

    Continuously evaluate and improve counseling services based on outcomes.