Idaho School Counselors

Boasting an abundance of natural resources, snow-capped mountain ranges, and scenic lakes, Idaho is a true gem in the school counseling profession. This “Gem State” takes seriously its mission to meet the needs of all Idaho students, both academically and socially.

With full support of the Idaho School Counselor Association, counselors are encouraged, through a strategic plan, to enthusiastically advocate for children and youth, while being informed practitioners, life-long learners, and people dedicated to the profession.

Gone are the days of school counselors sitting in a back office, handing out college applications or only stepping in when trouble arises. Today’s school counselors are vital members of the education team. Their goal is to help all students in the areas of academic achievement, personal/social development, and college/career planning. Like all professionals in the education system, Idaho school counselors strive to help today’s students become the productive, well-adjusted adults.

What do Idaho’s school counselors do?

School counselors are an important part of the educational leadership team and provide valuable assistance to students, regardless of their individual challenges. Here are a few main assignments for Idaho school counselors:

1. They identify personal goals from middle school through high school and beyond.

   With the knowledge that every student is unique, Idaho school counselors approach personal goals with an open mind and skilled professionalism. They not only identify a student’s strengths, they guide them in optimal choices for higher education and career choices.

2. They identify the coursework necessary to help students achieve the high school graduation requirements and prepare for college/career readiness.

   Idaho school counselors have a big role in helping students choose the right educational path without wasting time on classes or courses that will not benefit them in the future. Not only do they push for every student to graduate on time, they do their best to offer college and career options for students of all academic levels.

3. They analyze assessment results to determine progress and identify needs for intervention and advisement.

   Assessing students regularly is an essential part of a school counselor’s role. Idaho counselors don’t want to see any student fall behind or slip through the cracks. Therefore, they utilize effective assessment tools on a yearly basis, and analyze the results to determine the needs of each student. They are prepared to step in for intervention and advisement when needed.

4. They work closely with school administration and parents to ensure the greatest potential for success.

   While school counselors cannot guarantee every student will proceed with a solid college/career path, they can work closely with parents and staff to offer the best opportunities possible. Idaho school counselors have a crucial role in a student’s post secondary success, and take that role very seriously.

Why should someone consider becoming a school counselor in Idaho?

Beyond guiding the next generation to become educated leaders of society, school counselors are considered indispensable in school systems across the United States. Here are a few key reasons someone should consider a school counseling career in Idaho:

• The average annual salary for school counseling in Idaho is just over $50,000. While there is room for increase, school counselors can get a great start in this “Gem State.”
• Idaho’s remarkably diverse atmosphere and scenic landscape draw residents in record numbers each year. Persons interested in the school counseling profession would greatly enjoy the abundance of natural beauty found in Idaho.
• In the state of Idaho, school counselors do not need to be certified teachers. Thus, students from many different undergraduate majors may apply. This offers a measure of flexibility for potential school counselors from various academic backgrounds.

Idaho school guidance counselors have every right to boast of their strong leadership skills. By striving to help today’s students become productive, well-adjusted adults, they should be seen and valued as true “gems” in the Idaho school system and beyond.

Contact schools offering school counseling or mental health counseling programs and learn how you can begin a career as a Idaho School Counselor.

Whether you are from Boise, Nampa, Pocatello, Idaho Falls, Meridian or anywhere else across the state, you will find school counseling a highly rewarding and respected career.

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