While most schools revolve around their teachers and students, there is an essential force at their center that is one of the key reasons why schools function. At Hollis Brookline High School (HBHS), this force is our school counselors. As the community took time to celebrate National Counselor Appreciation Week recently, the recognition of these unsung heroes allowed students and teachers to see that not only are they the tape and glue of our community, they’re the backbone.
In addition to Counselor Appreciation Week highlighting the roles of our counselors, it also highlights some misinterpretations and stereotypes about what they do, like how they only deal with therapy-like problems. Despite being new to the HBHS community, new school counselor Kristin Knarr can recognize how celebrating counselor appreciation helps address this misinformation. “This is a way to help connect with people, share what we do and then invite conversation or connectivity. There’s sometimes misperceptions about what we do,” said Knarr.
Here at HBHS, counselors defy these stereotypes daily by being more than just emotional support. In addition, they are problem-solvers, mediators and advocates who cover a variety of domains including academic guidance, future planning and social and emotional development. “We play a vital role in the school functioning and helping students out as a whole,” said School Counseling Department Chair Chantel Klardie.
Because of the wide range of domains they cover and the unrecognized importance of their work, the visibility Counselor Appreciation Week provides isn’t only well deserved but also necessary for the community to comprehend their true value. “To have our own week where we focus on what our role is within the school really brings awareness to what the school counseling role is and how we can serve our students and the greater community,” said Klardie.
How exactly do our counselors serve the greater community, even when they’re not in the spotlight? “School counselors collaborate with a multitude of stakeholders on a regular basis,” explained HBHS counselor Dr. Dawn Breault. “We implement school-wide programs, advocate for students constantly and are always striving to meet the best practices within the field.”
Some of these programs include hosting quiet lunches, displaying anti-bullying presentations and running mental health awareness campaigns. Not only does this work prove HBHS counselors go beyond individual sessions with students, but it also shows they’re continuously collaborating with teachers, administrators and families to ensure that every student has the tools and support they need to succeed both academically and personally.
While counselors have many attributes, the individuals themselves are what make our school’s counseling department so special. “What sets this team apart is the unique qualities and unwavering dedication they bring to this table. This specific group of counselors goes over and above on a consistent basis. The level of caring, professionalism and talent is unmatched. We all support each other and have fun while doing it,” said Dr. Breault.
This sentiment is also echoed by her coworkers. “This is the greatest team that I’ve ever been able to be a part of. I think that each different counselor brings a certain strength to the table,” said Klardie.
Even though they may not always be the first to receive recognition, they have a profound impact on our community because of their deep commitment to helping students succeed. Whether they’re working behind the scenes or standing in front of the classroom to facilitate school-wide programs, counselors at HBHS are committed to making sure they’re, “not just behind a closed door,” but rather “accessible to all students in all walks of life,” said Klardie.
So while counselors’ work might seem hidden, their impact is felt in every hallway, classroom and student’s future. It is this ability to make a difference in the lives of students every day that shows they’re the core of our thriving school community, deserving appreciation not only once a year, but daily.
