School counselors work to empower students to become productive and contributing members of society. In partnership with families, staff members and the community, school counselors provide a developmental program that addresses students’ academic, personal/social and career development.

School counselors help with:

• transitioning from elementary to middle to high school to postsecondary opportunities

• academic planning and educational progress

• concerns that interfere with learning

• acquiring skills and knowledge to cope with pressures

• interpreting test results

• getting connected with school programs and community opportunities

• planning for postsecondary education and career options

School counselors are trained to:

• work with parents, students and school staff members

• work with students individually and in groups to help resolve problems that interfere with learning

• provide large group instruction using counseling curriculum that supports the educational and personal development of all students 

• support students with special needs and may serve as a member of child study team

• offer critical incident intervention, prevention and response services

• maintain contact with and make appropriate referrals to community and social agencies

• provide information about school and community resources

• plan and coordinate schoolwide programs for students and parents in academic achievement, personal/social development, career development and transition planning

• help students explore options for college and career training and pathways

You can find your school counselor on your school’s website.

Request transcript/records

Learn more about School Counseling in Virginia

• School Counseling in Virginia Public Schools

• Standards for School Counseling Programs in Virginia Public Schools (K-12) PDF

Academic resources

• Virginia Graduation Requirements

• 2024-25 Program of Studies

• 2023-24 Program of Studies

• General Educational Development Certificates (GED) & Other Diplomas and Certificates

• State Guidance on Home Instruction

• Foreign Exchange Admission Procedures (High School Only)

• Military Families

State Policy & Initiatives

• Project Graduation

• Early College Scholars Program

• Profile of a Virginia Graduate

College and career resources

• College Board

• Explore AP

• ACT

• Explore the PSAT Suite:

  • PSAT 8/9 | PSAT 10

  • PSAT/NMSQT

• Virginia Career View

• Virginia Wizard

• MajorClarity

Personal/Social Resources

• Name Change Request Form

• Name Change Request Form – Spanish

• Internet Safety – NetSmartz

• Internet Safety – Stay Safe Online

• Internet Safety – Broadband Search – Protect my child

• Suicide Prevention – Sources of Strength Program

• Suicide Prevention – Signs of Suicide Program

• Social Inclusion – Start with Hello Program

• Anti-Bullying – Promote Respect

• Anti-Bullying – Teens Against Bullying

• Anti-Bullying – Stop Bullying

• Community Resources including social work, temporary housing and resources for those experiencing homelessness

• National Association for the Education of Homeless Youth