We offer counseling services to all students - both individually and in groups - and design these services to address the academic, social, emotional, and developmental needs of our students. Hanover County Public Schools adheres to the American School Counselor Association national model which is a framework for a comprehensive, data-driven school counseling program.
Through classroom lessons, small group counseling, and individual meetings with students, school counselors provide academic, social, and emotional support and resources. School counselors serve to assist students with course selections, to meet with and counsel individuals or groups of students to help them overcome obstacles to learning and personal growth, to provide career information, and to guide in planning for a prospective career and further education. Serving as a liaison between the school and the home, school counselors provide parents with information on the student’s progress in school.
It is the goal of each of our school counselors to make students feel that they are supported and safe at school. Providing backpack meals to families in need, spreading kindness through Gratitude Grams, and welcoming new students with our student ambassador program are just some of the ways school counselors support the “whole child.” A copy of the school counseling program calendar is available.
Consultation
An important part of the school counselor’s role is consultation. Counselors are available to consult with parents, faculty, and community agencies in order to best meet the individual needs of all students.
Classroom Lessons
Our counselors conduct a variety of classroom lessons throughout the year. Lessons to address personal/social issues are based on grade-level needs but may include mindfulness, strategies for dealing with stress, working with others, and conflict resolution. Academic planning lessons take place in December to discuss courses for the upcoming year and graduation requirements. Our career counselor leads career lessons to explore career interests, identify students’ strengths, and develop college and career readiness skills.
Small Groups
Small group counseling sessions require parent permission and will be based on student needs, but may include:
- Study Skills
- Dealing with Stress
- Book Club
- Self-Empowerment
- Expressing Yourself Through Art
Transition to High School
Hanover County Public Schools offers a variety of programs and services to students as they transition to high school. For additional information on academic and career planning guides, please utilize the Program of Studies page on the division web site. Please contact our 8th grade school counselor, Mrs. Collier, with questions or for more information.
To access applications and teacher recommendations for specific programs, please use the links below.
Links to applications for rising 9th grade students:
Links to teacher recommendation form: