CHARLESTON, W.Va. – West Virginia Governor Jim Justice has issued a proclamation recognizing National School Counseling Week, Feb. 5 – 9, 2024. In the proclamation, he cited the commitment of school counselors to helping students explore their abilities, strengths, interests and talents. A counselor’s training and experience make them integral in impacting student success.
West Virginia school counselors are highly educated, licensed professionals who work with all students to remove barriers to learning by addressing academic concerns, career exploration, post-secondary options and social-emotional development. They provide numerous services for students, families and the school community as vital members of the education team. Studies from the American School Counselor Association have shown that students in schools with comprehensive school counseling programs display fewer behavior issues, higher academic outcomes, improved attendance, stronger social skills and are more connected to school.
“Every West Virginia school counselor is charged with a duty to support students and ensure they become productive, well-adjusted adults of tomorrow,” said State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt. “Now more than ever, we must acknowledge and celebrate the crucial role they play in developing the future leaders of the Mountain State.”
National School Counseling Week focuses attention on the unique contribution of school counselors in the public school system and how students are changed by the work of the counselors. It is a testament to the tremendous impression counselors have on their communities.
View Governor Justice’s full proclamation here. Learn more about the impact school counselors have on students from Buffalo Middle School counselor Lauren Hensley in a recent Keeping ConnectED feature.
For media inquiries, contact Christy Day at the West Virginia Department of Education Office of Communications at (304) 558-2699 or christy.day@k12.wv.us.
