The Focus of High School Counselors: Helping Great Students, Mediocre Students, or Bad Students?

It's often debated whether high school counselors prioritize their attention on great students, mediocre students, or those who might be struggling academically or behaviorally. My own experiences at both public and private schools offer insights into this complex issue.

Public School Experience: A Tale of Two Sides

Back in my days at a public school, it seemed that the counselors had a very clear hierarchy of who needed their services. According to my recollection, the only students who received significant attention were the top 10 students and those who were in the bottom 10. This is evident from my own experience. When my parents transferred me to a new school, I was in the top 25 of my class, but I remember being told by the counselors, “We loved Ben! We never had to see him.” This statement puzzled me. How could the counselors express such a lack of interest in me, especially when I was a valued student?

A Shift to a Private School

Contrast that with my experience at Jesuit Dallas, a private school. Here, the counselors welcomed me to engage in fun and engaging conversations about my future college and life goals. They appeared comfortable with my coming into their office spaces in the junior commons to discuss my aspirations. Being in the top 20–25 of my class, I still had ample opportunities for interaction and guidance. This stands in stark contrast to my public school experience, where the counselors seemed to only talk to students who were either in the top 10 or at the bottom 10.

The Debate Continues: Insights from a Community College Instructor

As a community college instructor, I often encounter students who transfer from high schools with varied attitudes and experiences towards counseling. The question of prioritization among counselors is not lost on me, and I must admit, it can be quite insulting. The primary role of counselors is to assist anyone who requires their expertise and support. The kind of assistance provided is tailored to the specific needs of the students who seek it.

The Broader Perspective: Engaged Student Community

Privilege aside, private schools often foster a more engaged and supportive community. This includes not only the counselors but also the other faculty members. In a private setting, there is a sense of camaraderie and brotherhood, which often translates into a more comprehensive approach to supporting students across the board.

Conclusion

The debate about which group of students gets the most attention from high school counselors is not a straightforward one. Public and private schools seem to approach this issue differently, but the underlying principle is that the primary goal of counselors should be to assist all students in achieving their full potential. The type of support and engagement may vary, but the intention should always be present. Whether it's a top student, a mediocre student, or a student in need, the goal of every counselor should be clear and unwavering.