At Polk School District, our school counselors play a vital role in supporting the academic, social, emotional, and career development of every student. Through a comprehensive school counseling program, our counselors provide guidance, resources, and support to ensure students are prepared for success both in and out of the classroom.

Our school counselors are dedicated professionals who work in collaboration with students, families, teachers, administrators, and the community to create a positive and supportive school environment.

Services Offered by School Counselors

Academic Support & Guidance

✅ Individual Student Planning – Assistance with goal-setting, course selection, academic planning, and graduation requirements.
✅ Study Skills & Time Management – Helping students develop strategies for organization, study habits, and test preparation.
✅ Intervention & Support – Identifying students who need additional academic assistance and connecting them with resources.
✅ Scheduling & Course Selection – Guidance on selecting the best courses for students' educational and career goals.

College & Career Readiness

✅ Career Exploration & Planning – Assisting students in identifying interests and skills to plan for future careers.
✅ College & Scholarship Guidance – Providing information about college applications, scholarships, financial aid, and post-secondary opportunities.
✅ Dual Enrollment & Work-Based Learning – Supporting students in gaining real-world experience and earning college credit while in high school.

Personal & Social Development

✅ Individual & Group Counseling – Providing support for students facing personal challenges, including stress, anxiety, grief, self-esteem, peer relationships, and more.
✅ Conflict Resolution & Peer Mediation – Helping students navigate conflicts in a healthy and productive way.
✅ Crisis Intervention & Support – Assisting students who are experiencing emotional distress or facing urgent situations.
✅ Bullying Prevention & Character Development – Encouraging positive behavior and creating a safe, inclusive school culture.

Mental Health & Wraparound Services

✅ Referrals for Licensed Clinical Therapy – Our school counselors can refer students to on-site licensed clinical therapists for additional mental health support.
✅ Community Resource Connections – Linking students and families to local mental health, housing, food, and financial assistance resources.
✅ Parent & Family Support – Offering resources and guidance to help families navigate academic and emotional challenges.

How to Access School Counseling Services

📌 Students: If you need to talk to a counselor, you can visit the counseling office at your school during the day or request an appointment.
📌 Parents & Guardians: If you have concerns about your child’s academic progress, emotional well-being, or post-secondary planning, please reach out to your child’s school counselor for guidance and resources.
📌 Teachers & Staff: Counselors work closely with teachers and staff to support students in their academic and personal development. Referrals can be made if a student is struggling.

Why School Counseling Matters

At Polk School District, we believe in educating and supporting the whole child. Our school counseling program helps students develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to succeed in school and beyond. By providing academic guidance, emotional support, career planning, and crisis intervention, our counselors are making a positive impact on students' lives every day.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the counseling office at your school. We are here to help!

📞 Need Support? Contact your school's counseling office for more information.

- MEET YOUR COUNSELOR -