
It’s time to recognize the vital role of school counselors during National School Counseling Week 2025 (NSCW). This year, the event runs from February 3-7, 2025, with the theme “School Counseling: Helping Students Thrive.” Hosted by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), the weeklong celebration aims to highlight the invaluable contributions of school counselors in guiding students toward academic success, career readiness, and personal growth.
The Role of School Counselors
School counselors play a pivotal role in student development, providing essential support in academic achievement, career exploration, and social-emotional learning. They serve as advocates for students, helping to break down barriers to success and ensuring that every student has the resources they need to thrive.
From assisting with college and career planning to offering guidance on mental health and emotional well-being, school counselors serve as a crucial bridge between students, teachers, and families. Their work fosters a positive and supportive school environment, empowering students to reach their full potential.
National School Counseling Week 2025 Activities
To engage students, educators, and communities, ASCA encourages schools to participate in daily challenges throughout the week. These activities offer opportunities to showcase the impact of school counselors and promote their vital work on social media using the hashtag #NSCW25.
Each day of the week is assigned a different prompt:
- Monday, Feb. 3: “School Counselors Help Students Thrive by…”
- Tuesday, Feb. 4: “I Know Students are Thriving When…”
- Wednesday, Feb. 5: “I Thrive as a School Counselor When…”
- Thursday, Feb. 6: “I’m a School Counselor Because…”
- Friday, Feb. 7: “Every Student Needs a School Counselor Who…”
These prompts encourage meaningful conversations and reflections on the importance of school counseling. Participants can download pre-made signs from ASCA’s website and share their responses through photos and videos.
Special Recognition and Events
Another highlight of National School Counseling Week is the Instagram takeovers by finalists for the 2025 School Counselor of the Year. Each finalist will share insights into their daily work, offering an inside look at how school counselors positively impact students and school communities.
Additionally, many school districts and educational organizations, including the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA), use this week to honor school counselors through local events, recognitions, and awareness campaigns. These efforts help emphasize the critical need for school counseling programs nationwide.
How to Get Involved
Whether you’re a student, parent, educator, or community member, you can participate in National School Counseling Week by:
- Expressing gratitude: Take a moment to thank a school counselor for their hard work and dedication.
- Sharing on social media: Use the hashtag #NSCW25 to spread awareness and appreciation.
- Encouraging student engagement: Schools can organize assemblies, classroom discussions, or letter-writing campaigns to recognize counselors.
- Advocating for counseling programs: Support initiatives that ensure schools have well-funded and well-staffed counseling services.
Final Thoughts
National School Counseling Week is a time to celebrate the professionals who help students navigate their educational and personal journeys. By acknowledging their contributions and advocating for their role in schools, we reinforce the importance of student success and well-being. Let’s come together to honor school counselors and their unwavering commitment to helping students thrive!
Interested in joining school staff so you too can help the next generation grow? Visit www.americanboard.org.