Senate Resolution No. recognizes the week of February 3-7, 2025, as School Counseling Week, as designated by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA). The resolution highlights the essential role that school counselors play in the educational process, helping students achieve academic success and prepare for future careers, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. It emphasizes the counselors' contributions to students' social and emotional well-being, guiding them through challenges such as peer pressure, bullying, and mental health issues, while also collaborating with parents and educators to set realistic goals and explore community resources.
The resolution also points out the significant disparity in the student-to-counselor ratio in Michigan's public schools, which stands at 598-to-1, compared to the recommended 250-to-1 ratio. By recognizing School Counseling Week, the Senate aims to raise awareness about the vital role school counselors play in fostering personal and social development, which is crucial for academic achievement and preparing students to become productive members of society.