School Counselors, College Counseling, and Equity: The Role of State Counseling Directors

• In Event: High School Counselors and Teachers and College Access

Abstract

The purpose of our study is to examine the role of state leaders who support school counseling to increase our understanding of how these departments might optimize counseling practices to have a positive impact on students' college readiness. This study utilized qualitative interviews with 30 state leaders responsible for school counseling to capture ways in which they understand their role in supporting school counselor practices in their state. Findings include evidence of great inconsistency at the state level related to the purpose of this position. We also found that there are no accountability mechanisms for enacted school counseling policies.

Authors

• Heather T. Rowan-Kenyon, Boston College

• Mandy Savitz-Romer, Harvard University

• Tara Patricia Nicola, Harvard University

• Stephanie Carroll, Boston College

• Laura Hecht, Harvard University