Elementary school counselors provide support to students, teachers, and parents with the overarching goal of student success. Elementary school counselors work with youth both individually and in groups to develop academic and social skills.
Elementary School Counseling Overview
An elementary school guidance counselor works within the elementary school system to provide guidance to children. This generally involves observation, as well as speaking with teachers and parents to evaluate a student's individual strengths or special needs. Elementary counselors work with all students to maximize their academic and social skills. Most states require that school counselors hold a master's degree in school counseling or a related field. State licensing is mandatory, but requirements vary.
| Required Education | Master's degree in school counseling or related field |
| Licensing | License required in all states |
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029) | 8% (school and career counselors)* |
| Median Annual Salary (2019) | $57,040 (elementary and secondary counselors)* |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Elementary School Counselor Job Description
What are some elementary school counselor responsibilities? The primary role of a guidance counselor in elementary school is to ensure that students have access to the resources necessary for academic and social development. Elementary school counselors work with teachers and parents to make sure that developmentally challenged students have the proper tools and guidance to effectively learn within their skill sets. They also ensure that curricula and programs address the developmental and educational needs of students.
Career Information
Elementary school counselors have begun to take on more roles and responsibilities. Many now provide children with counseling related to issues such as drug and alcohol abuse, parents in rehabilitation or prison settings and death or suicide. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov), employment for school and career counselors was projected to increase by 8% from 2019-2029. As of May 2019, the BLS reports that school and career counselors made a median annual salary of $57,040.
How to Become an Elementary School Counselor
What is required in terms of an elementary school counselor degree? Educational training for elementary school counselors varies by state. To earn school counselor licensure or certification, candidates are generally required to earn a master's degree in school counseling through a college of education or psychology.
Students enrolled in an elementary school counseling program might take courses in cultural diversity, human development, counseling techniques, psychological testing procedures, educational program evaluations and professional ethics. Most elementary school counseling programs include an internship or practical experience, which might vary in length from 30-400 hours. To maintain elementary school counselor licensure, candidates are usually required to complete continuing education courses.
Elementary school counseling licensing requirements vary by state, occupational specialty and work setting. Some states require elementary school counselors to pass state school counseling exams, while others require elementary school counselors to have a master's degree and/or some teaching experience. Some elementary school counselors earn voluntary certification from the National Board for Certified Counselors or the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.
Elementary school counselors serve to help students to become successful academically and socially. In order to do this, they often work closely with school faculty and parents.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between an elementary school guidance counselor and a teacher? Teachers and guidance counselors both work in elementary schools, providing resources for students. Teachers focus on conveying important information to students, whereas guidance counselors provide emotional and academic support outside of the classroom. Counselors and teachers often work closely with each other to support students.
- What are some careers similar to elemantery school counselor? Many other professions are related to elementary school counselors. For example, middle school and high school guidance counselors perform similar duties to elementary school guidance counselors, but they work with students of a different age level. Teachers also work with students just like guidance counselors do.
- How long does it take to become an elementary school guidance counselor? In order to become a guidance counselor, you'll need to complete a bachelor's degree (4 years) and also a master's degree (1-2 years). Then you'll need to obtain a license as a school counselor according to your state's licensure requirements. Generally, the whole process takes between 5 and 6 years once you begin pursuing your bachelor's degree.
