Mississippi School Counselors

School counselors across the U.S. have a tremendous responsibility in addressing the social, academic, and career needs of every student. The state of Mississippi takes this responsibility to a whole new level of dedication to America’s students.

As advocates, they provide a platform of possibility, not only academically, but personally and behaviorally as well. Mississippi fosters healthy student development and achievement, as they grow, learn, and eventually enter the career field.

The Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) acknowledges the necessary value of school counseling, and is committed to supporting strong, productive programs that strive for excellence. This “Magnolia State” has blossomed into a fine example of how comprehensive school counseling programs ought to perform.

What do Mississippi school counselors do?

Traditionally, school counseling services were designed to handle minor conflicts and guide students towards graduation. However, this profession has taken on a whole new set of goals and standards as they reach beyond academic success into personal and behavioral growth as well.

Here are a few key roles of the Mississippi school counselor:

1. Enhance student learning

   Using data-driven techniques and implementing educational tools, school counselors in Mississippi enhance learning for every student by playing an active role in their education. Evaluating each child’s learning curve and personal challenges, they are able to determine students’ academic strengths and weaknesses and counsel appropriately for ultimate success.

2. Identify at-risk students

   Whether it be the risk of a student dropping out of school, or a child dealing with a behavioral issue, school counselors in Mississippi are highly trained to identify at-risk students. School counselors address the “whole child” and promote students’ needs both inside the school walls and within their family units as well.

3. Work with other school personnel to provide essential services

   School counseling is not a solo effort. It takes team work to provide the essential services students need to succeed. Mississippi school counselors work closely with school officials, educators, and personnel to ensure all students receive the programs needed to graduate. They also guide them to be well-rounded, productive members of society. Some of the services provided include individual counseling, family counseling, academic support and prevention programs.

4. Offer career and educational counseling

   Through the latest technologies and systems, Mississippi school counselors offer career and educational counseling to every student. This may include classroom teaching, instruction, and personal guidance. They especially assist students in the college application process, as well as the search for financial aid and scholarships.

5. Implement crisis intervention and preventive counseling

   With today’s focus on school safety, Mississippi school counselors are equipped to implement crisis intervention and preventive counseling on the topics of bullying, drug/alcohol abuse, and crisis preparedness. School counselors are ready to respond effectively in order to uphold student safety.

6. Supply conflict resolution tools

   With the various needs of today’s students, school counselors must be able to adequately handle conflict resolution. From minor, everyday conflicts, to more substantial issues, Mississippi counselors are ready to supply communication helps and conflict resolution tools to promote a conflict-free environment.

Why should someone consider becoming a school counselor in Mississippi?

Besides being an essential part of the Mississippi educational system, school counselors are highly valued professionals who can make a lasting impact on the future generation.

With this in mind, here are a few reasons why someone should consider becoming a school counselor in Mississippi:

• The average salary for a school counselor in Mississippi is around $51,130 per year.
• It’s a personally rewarding profession, with room for growth and leadership in schools and communities.

School counselors in this “Magnolia State” cannot be overlooked in their dedication to students, families, and their communities. In their striving for excellence and advocacy, Mississippi leads as an example to other educational programs within the U.S.

Contact schools offering school counseling or mental health counseling programs and learn how you can begin a career as a Mississippi School Counselor.

Whether you are from Jackson, Gulfport, Biloxi, Hattiesburg, Southaven, Greenville, or anywhere else across the state, you will find school counseling a highly rewarding and respected career.

Back to the top