School Counseling Program Checklist
Plan a data-informed counseling program: needs assessment, lessons, groups, referrals, crisis readiness, and evaluation.
Checklist preview
Needs Assessment & Planning
- Review school data such as attendance, discipline, and achievement.
- Survey students, staff, and families about needs and priorities.
- Set measurable program goals aligned with school priorities.
- Align the program with a recognized framework, such as the ASCA National Model, if your district uses one.
- Build an annual calendar of lessons, groups, and events.
Classroom & Schoolwide Lessons
- Plan lessons for social-emotional, academic, and career development.
- Coordinate lesson times with teachers and administrators.
- Prepare pre- and post-assessments to measure lesson impact.
- Plan schoolwide awareness events and activities.
Small Groups & Individual Support
- Identify small-group topics based on data and referrals.
- Obtain consent for groups according to district policy.
- Set clear goals and a session plan for each group.
- Schedule individual counseling sessions and check-ins.
Referrals & Collaboration
- Set up a clear referral process for staff, students, and families.
- Maintain a list of vetted community resources and agencies.
- Collaborate with teachers, administrators, and student support teams.
- Share the counseling calendar with staff and families.
Crisis Response & Safety
- Review the district's crisis response and suicide prevention procedures.
- Confirm your role on the school crisis team.
- Review mandated reporting procedures and contacts.
- Prepare a crisis kit with key contacts and procedures.
Records & Evaluation
- Keep counseling notes confidential and stored securely.
- Follow legal and ethical guidelines when sharing student information.
- Track participation and program outcome data.
- Share results with administrators and stakeholders.
- Use outcomes to adjust the program for next year.