Mission Statement

The Mission Statement of the NFMS Professional School Counseling Program is to provide all students with the necessary tools to reach their fullest potential in the areas of academic, career, and personal/social development. 

PHILOSOPHY

The Statement of Philosophy of the NFMS Professional School Counseling Program is that all students have the ability to learn.  However, personal and social concerns sometimes interfere with academic progress.  Tools in dealing with these situations need to be provided to students.  It is also the philosophy that program evaluations need to take place to ensure the counseling program is meeting the needs of all students.

Why Middle School Counselors? 

Source: American School Counselor Association (ASCA) 

Middle school students are characterized by rapid physical growth, curiosity about their world, and an emerging self-identity. Through a comprehensive developmental school counseling program, counselors work as a team member with school staff, parents/guardians and the community to create a caring, supportive climate and atmosphere whereby young adolescents can achieve academic success. 

Middle school counselors enhance the learning process and promote academic achievement. School counseling programs are essential for students to achieve optimal personal growth, acquire positive social skills and values, set appropriate career goals and realize full academic potential to become productive, contributing members of the world community. The professional middle school counselor holds a master’s degree and required state certification in school counseling. Maintaining certification includes on-going professional development to stay current with education reform and challenges facing today’s students. Professional association membership is encouraged as it enhances the school counselor’s knowledge and effectiveness.