National School Counseling Week is celebrated from annually Feb. 6–10, focusing public attention on the “unique contributions of professional school counselors within U.S. school systems and how students are positively affected because of the great things that school counselors do,” according to a press release.

“National School Counseling Week, sponsored by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), highlights the tremendous impact school counselors can have in helping students achieve school success and plan for a career.”

The special week honoring school counselors provides recognition for school counselors who “implement comprehensive school counseling programs, a vital part of the educational process for all students as they meet the challenges of the 21st century,” according to Charles Berkley, superintendent of Lunenburg County Public Schools.

“Lunenburg County Public Schools recognizes its school counselors for being actively engaged in helping students examine their abilities, strengths, interests and talents; for working in a partnership with parents as they encounter the challenges of raising children in today’s world; for focusing on positive ways to enhance students’ social/personal, educational and career development; and working with teachers and other educators to provide an educational system where students can realize their potential and set healthy, realistic and optimistic aspirations for themselves.” According to the release, professional school counselors are certified, experienced educators with a master’s degree in guidance and counseling. “The combination of their training and experience makes them an integral part of the total educational program.”

“School counselors work with all students to remove barriers to learning by addressing students’ academic concerns, career awareness in post-secondary options and personal/social skills,” said Dr. Kwok-Sze Wong, ASCA executive director. “Comprehensive school counseling programs help to increase student achievement and provide a much-needed resource for students, parents, teachers and administrators. School counselors are integral to student success.”