Another Survey Monkey non-statistical survey from MCPS, this time on School Counseling

Here is a survey from MCPS on School Counseling. The public comment period ends September 4, 2023. The survey is available here. The proposed revised policy and the original policy is here.

The original policy spoke very specifically about counselors and their role. The new policy appears to have deleted almost all references to school counselors and their role, instead talking about a "multi-tiered system" of "drop-in support," "student well-being teams," community partners, and volunteers.

Policy IJA, School Counseling

Public Comment Sought on new draft Policy IJA, School Counseling

The Montgomery County Board of Education is seeking comments on proposed amendments to Board Policy IJA, School Counseling, to help the public understand the programs, services, and professionals responding to the social-emotional and mental health needs of students.

The policy has been available for comment since April 26, 2023. The public comment period will extend through September 4, 2023.    

The draft amendments propose-
• A name change to Policy IJA, Social-Emotional and Mental Health Programming and Services for Students, to include school psychologists, school social workers, and other pupil personnel who work with school counselors to address the social-emotional and mental health needs of students,
• Teams at each school to organize available professionals to respond to students’ needs,
• Regular opportunities for students to meet with professionals at their schools, and
• Communication to students to families to understand the professionals, programs and services at each school.

1. Do you have a concern about social-emotional or mental health programs or services?
2. Is there an issue about social-emotional or mental health programs or services that you would like the Board to address in policy?
3. Do you have a specific comment about the draft amendments to Policy IJA?

https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org