Proposed changes to School Counseling regulations

[reprinted from NYSSCA]

NYSED released the new School Counseling program, training and certification regulations for public comment on February 10th, 2016. This is the next important step before the regulations return to the Board of Regents for discussion and a vote on their adoption. We do not know when this vote will be scheduled, but the 45 days required for public comment means the April 18-19, 2016, meeting is the earliest possible date. NYSSCA leadership will continue our frequent communication with NYSED to check on the progress of the regulations and will inform our membership when we have confirmed information.

To access the regulations and instructions on how to comment, visit the New York Department of State Register at
http://docs.dos.ny.gov/info/register/2016/feb10/toc.html
click on Rule Making Activities. (School Counseling Regulations start on page 2 and end on page 6).

What can you do to support adoption of these regulations? A comment that represents your particular perspective is most meaningful. You might start by identifying your role (e.g. middle school counselor) and then express how you believe students will benefit from these updates (e.g. gaps will be identified, students will have greater access to the services provided by school counselors.) You may want to add how adopting these standards will also support you as a professional (e.g. NYSED's adoption of strong professional standards for school counselors will inform my principal on the changes needed to update our district program.) This is just a suggestion to help you formulate a strong comment. Your own words are the best words to use.

Contacting the Regent that represents your county may be helpful as the meeting date for discussion and vote approaches. NYSSCA will provide information to help you do this as the meeting date approaches.

Dr. Barbara Donnellan
NYSSCA President 2015-2016