Educator Salutes Counseling Week

State Supt. of Public Instruction Delaine Eastin has expressed support for National School Counseling Week, scheduled to begin Monday.

The statement was released Tuesday in the wake of approval by the governor and Legislature of a bill that allows California schools to hire more counselors. The legislation provides a block grant to be used primarily on school safety issues. It’s up to individual districts to decide how to use the money.

“Unfortunately, California is last among states in its ratio of students to counselors, with a statewide ratio of 1,021 to 1, compared to a national average of about 513 to 1.” Eastin said in her statement. “We need to do a better job of listening to our youth and engaging them in finding ways to improve our world. I have met many counselors and other adults who are working tirelessly to provide those opportunities to the students.”

In her statement, Eastin also urged acknowledgment of the contributions made by school counselors and their work in addressing students’ growth.

“This week’s goal is to highlight the importance that counselors have on our campuses,” said Doug Stone, the education department’s director of communications. “What we’ve learned is that mental health, especially among adolescents, is a key ingredient for their overall well-being.”

Eastin also stressed the importance of youths having at least one caring adult in their lives, especially in light of the Columbine High shootings and other recent tragedies.

National School Counseling week is sponsored by the California School Counseling Assn.