O.C. Celebrates National School Counseling Week

OCNJ Daily

National School Counseling Week, sponsored by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), was celebrated from Feb. 3-7 to focus public attention on the unique contribution of school counselors within U.S. school systems and how students are different as a result of what school counselors do. National School Counseling Week highlights the tremendous impact school counselors can have in helping students achieve school success and plan for a career. “School counselors work with all students to remove barriers to learning by addressing students’ academic concerns, postsecondary options and social/emotional skills,” said Kwok-Sze Wong, ASCA executive director. “School counseling programs help to increase student achievement and provide a much-needed resource for students, parents, teachers and administrators. School counselors are integral to student success.” In honor of National School Counseling Week, the Ocean City School District recognized two counselors for their achievements, Tobi Oves and Joel Dougan. "We are grateful to have such incredible counselors and special services staff throughout our district. Our counselors are an integral component of our students' educational process," Schools Superintendent Dr. Kathleen Taylor said. Oves is a college and career counselor for Ocean City High School. She has been chosen by the Colleges That Change Lives membership and Board of Directors as one of the 2020 Counselors That Change Lives. According to the Counselors That Change Lives website, “The Counselors That Change Lives Award recognizes those whose dedication to the college counseling profession reflects the CTCL ideals. By helping students frame their search beyond the ratings and rankings to find a college that provides the foundation for a successful and fulfilling life, these counselors change lives.” Dougan is a guidance counselor for the Ocean City Primary School. He has been selected as a 2020 Cape Atlantic School Counselor. "Joel Dougan was chosen because he demonstrates leadership, helps others through resilience, positive change, problem solving and anti-bullying programs and activities," said Cathleen Smith, principal of the Ocean City Primary School. Parents or community members with questions or concerns about school counseling programs should contact the school counselors at their local schools. More general information can also be found on ASCA’s website at www.schoolcounselor.org.