Involving Stakeholders
It is important to maintain student, administrator, teacher, parent, student and community involvement throughout each phase of the district/supervisory union’s transition to a fully implemented comprehensive school counseling Service. Stakeholder involvement translates into a sense of ownership and greater credibility for the Service. The following list describes ways to involve others:
- Plan ways to get the input of individuals and groups of students who represent the diversity of the district/supervisory union community.
- Administer a student needs assessment (Service Planning Survey).
- Develop a communication system for stakeholders. (e.g., weekly bulletins, systematically meeting on a regular basis).
- Survey teachers to identify needed professional development to prepare them for their involvement in the district/supervisory union’s comprehensive school counseling Service.
- Invite stakeholder groups to attend the board presentation to demonstrate support for the Service.
- Discuss the results of the assessment of the current Service with stakeholders.
- Consider holding discussion groups or evening meetings.
- Provide time for parents/guardians to share information about their expertise/special interests.
- Talk with employers about the district/supervisory union’s school counseling Service, and seek their support and involvement.
