As Counselor appreciation week kicks off at Ridgeview High School Students are taking time to appreciate the counselors and their hard work here to guide students academically, socially, and emotionally. These counselors dedicate their time from being academic advisors to college application coaches to mental health advocates and crisis managers. Their work makes sure that students are on track to graduate while also developing social and emotional skills necessary for life beyond the classroom.
When asked on their reasoning to be a counselor Odessa Perkins said, “I wanted to make a difference and wanted students to know their voices are heard no matter what just because we’re adults doesn’t mean students don’t have some of the right answers as well, so I want them to know when they come to me they’re heard and I understand.” said Perkins. The importance of school counseling could impact students personally and academically thanks to our counselors, “I wanted be a counselor to help students figure out what they wanted to do it wasn’t easy for me to figure out what I wanted to do work wise finding career and I thought I’m probably not the only one having a hard time, so I decided a school counselor I can provide assistance and do as much as I can in order to help students along the way,” said Salvador Garcia.
For many students, school counselors are the first line of support, “Just helping classes, just choosing what classes would be best for me. A big part of it is the fact that I get a lot of help just figuring out the plan I want to go through,” said junior Eric Cantu. It’s essential to have counselors on campus when a student is struggling or needs advice. For Miriam Soukaria, junior year for her has been overwhelming with the thought of college around the corner and wanted help finding better opportunities for her to stand out as a student, “My counselor advised me to take hard classes”, said Soukaria.
As the week unfolds let’s not forget the people that help make this school better for students and help students set up their future. Their support is a continuous thread in students on campus success and well-being. Whether it’s helping a student choose the right college or providing therapy during a tough season of life, counselors are always there, quietly making an impact.
