Vision

At Vista Hills Elementary School all students realize their true skills and potential and are prepared to contribute and become productive members of their community. Exhibiting mastery of their academic achievements, career and social/emotional skills necessary for success in both the short and long term.

Mission

The mission of Vista Hills Elementary School counseling department is to foster our students’ love for learning, encourage them to try new and exciting things, and give them a solid foundation to build on through academic, career, and social-emotional development and in doing so, achieve their potential and become independent life-long learners. Students will become college-and career ready world class citizens. All students will have equitable access to the Vista Hills School counseling program which provides developmentally appropriate activities including individual, small-group counseling and school counseling curriculum lessons. The school counselor at Vista Hills Elementary School is committed to provide a safe, supportive setting so that students have the opportunity to explore and to clarify their own beliefs and values, to take risks, and to think and speak for themselves.

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.