Guidance and counseling programs in the schools provide a wide range of comprehensive services to students. Services are intended to address barriers to learning, promote healthy lifestyles and support success for all students. Counseling and Guidance staff play an important role in the delivery of Tiered Supports as part of the district’s framework of Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS).

Download a printable version of the Comprehensive School Counseling Program document (PDF).

School Staff

All elementary, middle, and high schools have one or more of the following guidance and counseling staff:

• School counselors

• Social workers

• Behavior interventionists

• College and career specialists

Guidance and Counseling staff perform similar duties at all schools but craft their services based on the needs of the current student body at that school.

Examples of program services include:

• Offer short-term individual counseling for a variety of issues that impact students success

• Consult with parents and guardians, teachers, administrators, community service providers

• Facilitate skill-building student support groups, academic planning, placement and advisement towards high school graduation and post-high school options, career guidance and consultation and interpretation and guidance with standardized testing.

Although some school counselors also have a background in mental health counseling, that is not a primary role of a school counselor. The District has mental health partnerships with several local mental health agencies/therapists. These agencies offer on-site services at many of our Kent schools. Please contact the school counselor or principal at your child’s school to find out more information.

If your child is experiencing a mental health emergency, please contact the local Crisis Line at (866) 427-4747.