AISD elementary counselors work in each of the districtsÕ seventy-six elementary schools with students in grades PK through 5th or 6th grades. Their role is to help all students fully develop their academic, career, personal and social abilities. Elementary counselors are professional educators who deliver a comprehensive guidance program consisting of the following four components:

Classroom Guidance - Elementary counselors teach guidance lessons in all classrooms addressing basic life-long skills including responsible behavior, conflict resolution, goal setting, career planning, character education, among others. Counselors use a variety of developmentally appropriate techniques to engage students in learning.

Responsive Services Ð Elementary counselors sometimes provide short-term individual counseling sessions or they may see students in small group settings, when deemed appropriate. Concerns that might be affecting a studentÕs achievement in school are typically addressed in these sessions.

Individual Planning Ð AISD Elementary Counselors help 5th and 6th graders plan for their transition to middle school by coordinating events with their middle school counterparts and providing this information to students and their parents. Counselors also present information on careers and post-secondary education and training to all students through our IACP (Individual Academic Career Plan) process.

System Support - Counselors assist in referring students to appropriate support programs and services, both within the school setting and to outside agencies. They also participate in professional development to enhance their counseling skills and job effectiveness on an ongoing basis throughout the school year.