School Counselor 252

The following are ways to encourage parental involvement in school counseling programs. Which of the following is NOT a way to encourage parental involvement.

A. Communicate openly and frequently. B.Solicit ideas, suggestions, and questions C.Parent Education Workshops D.Only call parents with negative or bad news Answer D is correct. Most of the time, a call from the school guidance office is about bad news but communicating good news is very important when building a relationship and encouraging parental involvement in a school counselor's programs.

In what year was the American Counselor Association (ACA) established?

A.1952 B.2003 C.2004 D.1963 Answer A is correct. The year 1952, is the correct answer. In 1952, the American Counseling Association (ACA) was founded the ACA is the world's largest association exclusively representing professional counselors in various practice settings. The ACA was created to enhance the quality of life in society by promoting the development of professional counselors, advancing the counseling profession, and using the profession and practice of counseling to promote respect for human dignity and diversity.

The effectiveness of the comprehensive school counseling program is directly related to the counselor-to-student ratio within the program. What recommended school counselor to-student ratios does The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) recommend?

A.1:250 B.1:415 C.1:350 D.1:424

According to the Texas Education Agency (TEA), a school counselor holding multiple classes of certificates should obtain how many required CPE clock-hours when renewing their certificate every five-year?

A.500 hours B.200 hours C.50 hours D.150 hours Answer B is correct. 200 CPE hours is the correct answer. A school counselor must complete 200 CPE hours. No more than 200 CPE hours are required, even if you hold multiple certificates, such as: classroom, administrative, and student services certificates. This applies to superintendents, principals, school counselors, school librarians, educational diagnosticians, reading specialists and all master teachers, supervisor, special education supervisor, vocational supervisor, visiting teacher, and special education visiting teachers.

Which of the following situations would warrant an external referral?

A.A student is being physically and emotionally abused B.A student has fallen asleep in class C.A student feels sad because he has lost a pet D.A student is not making academic progress Answer A is correct. A student is being physically and emotionally abused is the correct answer. All school employees are all in a position to make a direct and positive difference in a child's life by learning how to recognize and report child abuse and neglect. You play an important role in a child's life and often represent a safe place for child victims to disclose abuse, particularly when the abuse occurs in the home. It is important to understand the signs and symptoms of abuse and how to report it. If you see something or suspect abuse, report it.

How do you as the school counselor track the effectiveness of a referral? Managing referrals requires collecting both quantitative and qualitative data. Which of the following is an example of quantitative data?

A.A student's work sample with comments from their teacher B.Observation C.Grades D.Feedback from a teacher about a student's progress Answer C is correct. Grades is the correct answer. Grades is an example of quantitative data. Quantitative data are anything that can be expressed as a number. Examples of quantitative data are test scores, grades, attendance records, or number of hours of study.

A school counselor wants to introduce culturally responsive teaching to the high school teachers at her school. Culturally responsive teaching depends on a learning environment that affirms our students and helps them feel included, validated, valued, and safe. Which of the following is NOT an element that promotes culturally responsive teaching?

A.A welcoming and affirming environment that feels safe B.High expectations and rigorous instruction C.Inclusive curriculum and assessment D.An in-depth knowledge about each individual student's culture Answer D is correct. To have an in-depth knowledge about each individual student's culture is the incorrect answer. Culturally responsive teaching doesn't require that a teacher individualize and understand every single student's culture. Instead, you can simply begin by looking at your school's demographics and identifying the largest demographic groups.

A school counselor will look at this specific student data before deciding which of their peers to group them with. Which specific data will the school counselor consider?

A.Academic B.Disciplinary and social/emotional C.Social/emotional D.Disciplinary Answer B is correct. Disciplinary and social/emotional are both the correct answer because both of these data points will help her decide which peers will work better together. By grouping the peers together based on disciplinary and social/emotional the school counselor knows that it will help students succeed in the all areas; academic, disciplinary, and social/emotional growth.

Understand current legal issues and ethical guidelines of the school counseling profession. Which one of the following determines the behavior of school counselors?

A.Academic support B.Counseling technique C.Professional code of ethics D.Crisis response Answer C is correct. Professional code of ethics is the correct answer. School counselors must follow a professional code of ethics when working with colleagues, parents and most especially, students. School counselors maintain the highest respect for student cultural identities and worldviews. School counselors pursue additional training and supervision when their values are discriminatory in nature (e.g., sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, reproductive rights, race, religion, ability status).

Making decisions based on your interpretation of the data, connecting what a student knows and what we want them to learn, and it's about accountability. What is this known as?

A.Data-driven decision-making B.Data-mining decision-making C.Data decision-making D.Faculty-driven decision-making Answer A is correct. Data-driven decision-making (DDDM) is a system of teaching and management practices that focuses on students' day-to-day learning and overall achievement.

It goes without saying that technology has drastically changed the day-to-day life of the average school counselor. Students are now vulnerable to a whole new set of risks which you as a school counselor should be on the lookout for. Which of the following is NOT a current technology concern that school counselors should be worried about?

A.Access to inappropriate adult material B.Cheating C.Online cyberbullying D.Completing online classroom projects Answer D is correct. Completing online classroom projects is the correct answer. While disadvantages such as cheating might occur, there are some advantages to completing online classroom projects. Some advantages to completing online classroom projects are flexibility, help develop a student's time management skills, helps develop a student's organizational skills, and ability to gain technical skills.

This data is collected by building on students' performance such as on state tests, or nationally normed tests and local assessments.

A.Achievement data B.Process data C.Nonacademic data D.Personal data Answer A is correct. Achievement data is the correct answer. The data that is gathered from the students' assessments and work. Academic data includes student-level achievement data. It is guided by the learning of students in the classroom.

As communities change and social dynamics become more complex, school counselors must be prepared to deal with a wide array of new challenges that student's face. Which is NOT a current challenge counselors will face?

A.Addressing the issues of racism and social biases. B.Addressing teachers that are not providing quality instruction C.Dealing with social isolation and family instability from the COVID-19 pandemic D.Promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and access. Answer B is correct. Quality instruction is the correct answer because it is not a challenge a school counselor has to address. Addressing quality instruction should be directed to the principal and should not be a duty for the school counselors. Quality instruction means the delivery of an instruction in a way that evokes students' interest, critical thinking, and learning in a meaningful way. It makes students become curious and excited about what they are doing and consequently enabling them to discover learning and take ownership of their own education.

Which of the following is NOT the best choice a school counselor should consider for a professional association?

A.American School Counselor Association B.American Counseling Association C.Texas Counseling Association D.Texas Classroom Teachers Association Answer D is correct. Texas Classroom Teachers Association (TCTA) is the correct answer. Texas Classroom Teachers Association is open to all individuals who directly work with students in Texas public school classrooms however, TCTA is not the best choice if you are becoming or already a school counselor because it is not designed with school counselors in mind. This association provides legal counsel and protection and free continuing education courses online to its members. Membership fees also cover the liability insurance provided by the association.

What does the Holland Hexagon refer to?

A.An educational assessment test consisting of six separate parts B.The six personality types described by the Holland Theory of Vocational Types C.A six-sided building in which many of the Texas educational programs are offered to students D.A proposed student curriculum consisting of six main areas of focus Answer B is correct. Holland Hexagon is a theory that matches between personality and behavioral types along with work environment. There are six personality types to Holland's theory: realistic, investigative, artistic, social, enterprising, and conventional.

The way in which your program distributes resources and time for a school counseling program will be determined by what?

A.Annual planning B.Stakeholders C.Goals D.Budget Answer C is correct. Goals is the correct answer because the way in which your program distributes resources and time will be determined by its goals. Goal setting can be a crucial skill in the success of a school counselor. As counselors, set goals, break them into manageable tasks, and track those goals to help your students make progress academically, socially, behaviorally, and emotionally.

Which therapy approach is NOT available in a public-school setting to help support students identified with the eligibility of Autism?

A.Applied behavior analysis (ABA) B.Speech and Language Therapy C.Social Skills Training (SST) D.Occupational Therapy Answer A is correct. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapy that helps kids with autism learn skills and lessen problematic behavior. In ABA therapy, a therapist reinforces desired behaviors and discourages unwanted behavior in a patient. Therapists use rewards to encourage a patient to develop communication, language, and other skills. ABA is the correct answer because while a teacher can implement ABA techniques in the classroom, ABA should be implemented by a certified ABA therapist and not usually fully implemented in a public-school setting.

As a school counselor you will maintain technological proficiency to provide for your students, administration, and other staff members. Which of the following is NOT a reason the school counselor would need to assist students through technology?

A.Aptitude testing B.Wiki page C.Entering grades D.Scholarship deadlines Answer C is correct. Entering grades is the correct answer. Classroom teachers are required to assign a grade that reflects the student's relative mastery of an assignment, entering grades in an inappropriate role of a school counselor.

All of the following are important skills by which the school counselor can reach out to teachers and staff in an effort to fulfill the goal of creating culturally responsive schools EXCEPT?

A.Assessing B.Leadership C.Advocacy D.Consultation and collaboration Answer A is correct. Assessing is the correct answer because it is not an important skill the school counselor can use to create a culturally responsive school. Assessment is used as a basis for identifying problems, planning interventions, evaluating and/or diagnosing clients, and informing clients and stakeholders.

A school counselor at Mitchell Intermediate School, wants to implement the SMART goal format for his 5th grade students regarding career opportunities. Which of the following SMART goals is he utilizing when writing the following statement?"All 5th grade students will attend the presentation and be able to identify at least one career opportunity/pathway that is available to them at the secondary level".

A.Attainable B.Specific C.Measurable D.Time Bound Answer A is correct. Attainable is the correct answer. The goals should be stretching and ambitious, but not unattainable for the student to be successful. In this example the students have to identify at least one career opportunity or pathway which is an attainable goal.

Holly has been told all her life by her parents that she can't be good at math because she is a girl. However, Holly who is in high school and notices that her friend, Shannen, excels in calculus class. Because Shannen can do it, Holly begins to think that maybe she can, too, so she studies hard and gets an A on her calculus exam. In this situation, Holly has illustrated what theory?

A.Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory B.Frank Parsons' Trait and Factor Theory C.Trait and Factor Theory D.Roe Personality Theory Answer A is correct. Bandura's social cognitive theory of human functioning emphasizes the critical role of self-beliefs in human cognition, motivation, and behavior. Social cognitive theory gives prominence to a self-system that enables individuals to exercise a measure of control over their thoughts, feelings, and actions.

The school counselor wants to improve the classroom climate, student engagement, and outcomes to maximize the impact of classroom lessons. What does the school counselor want to improve?

A.Behavior modification B.Differentiated instruction C.Classroom management D.Blended learning Answer C is correct. Classroom management is the correct answer. Classroom management refers to the wide variety of skills and techniques that teachers use to keep students organized, orderly, focused, attentive, on task, and academically productive during a class.

A school counselor is trying to decide which learning theory best suits a third grade Science class she is working with? Since education has many different approaches based on the context and the individuals participating in it, she decides to go with which theory?

A.Behaviorism B.Cognitivism C.Andragogy D.Constructivism Answer D is correct. Constructivism is the correct answer because it emphasizes learners' previous experiences. Constructivism is often employed to teach tasks that are more complex. The goal is to create autonomous learners, facilitate thinking and problem-solving skills that can be transferred, and activate learners to construct their own knowledge. Constructivist strategies include student interest rather than textbook content, complex problem-solving, experimentation, skill-based, and open-ended approaches, discovery, and guided learning

Because of many negative effects, this is a different approach, which can include pass/fail, mastery-based systems, narrative or portfolio-based scoring, non-points-based rubrics, and standards-based reporting. What is the following statement referring to?

A.Brain-based learning B.Gamification C.Blending Learning D.Alternatives to letter grades Answer D is correct. Alternatives to letter grades is the correct answer. Eliminating letter grades is an appealing idea to many educators and gaining momentum among those who advocate for standards-based grading, competency-based grading or other alternative models. Ditching traditional letter grades reduces stress levels and competition among students, levels the playing field for less advantaged students, and encourages them to explore knowledge and take ownership of their own learning.

As a school counselor, the idea that your words between a student are meant to stay between the two of you is known as what?

A.Breach of confidentiality B.Ethical standards C.Privileged communication D.Mandatory reporting Answer C is correct. Privileged communication is the correct answer. Privileged communication. Privileged communication between a school counselor and a student is a legal term granting protection to information shared in a counseling relationship only if said privilege is granted by federal or state statue. If privilege applies it can provide additional safeguards to confidential information.

There are both advantages and disadvantages of group counseling. Which one of the following is a disadvantage of group counseling?

A.Build empathy B.Personality conflicts C.Grow your network D.Promote social skills Answer B is correct. Personality conflicts is the correct answer because personality conflict is a disadvantage of group counseling. If somebody has a conflict with another group member, it is unlikely they will feel safe and supported in the environment.

The Work-Based Learning Continuum, as defined by the Work-Based Learning Framework 1.0 comprises 4 key phases: Career Awareness, Career Exploration, Career Preparation and Career Training. Which of the four Work-Based Learning Framework is described in the example below? Working toward developing a complete understanding of possible career fields and opportunities, factors that can influence a job's outlook, your own personal strengths and preferences, and the education necessary to be successful.

A.Career Exploration B.Career Awareness C.Career Preparation D.Career Training Answer B is correct. Career Awareness describes your career attitudes, your knowledge, and your life experiences. Career awareness is using all of these considerations when making active decisions about your career.

According to the Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs, what is the most important component of a school counseling program?

A.Career development B.Personal Development C.Social Development D.Academic Development Answer D is correct. Academic development is the most important component of a school counseling program. Academic counseling and guidance is a primary responsibility of school counselors and comprehensive school counseling programs. Student success is the goal for all school counseling programs and academic success is a major part of that.

How can the school counselor collaborate with students to develop and implement a successful school counseling program?

A.Check students' grades regularly B.Communicate with building administrators C.Collaborating with teachers D.Survey students to solicit feedback Answer D is correct. Survey students to solicit feedback is the correct answer. School counselors can collaborate with students by directly soliciting their feedback. School counselors often use surveys to learn more about what students need or expect when it comes to educational guidance and gather the data needed to gain insight into students.

To make counseling effective, counselors must not only master counseling skills and techniques but also understand the different theories that guide mental health professionals. Which theory focuses on a belief that behavior is learned and that people engage in problematic thinking and behavior when their environment supports it. When an environment reinforces or encourages these problems, they will continue to occur?

A.Cognitive Theory B.Constructionist Theory C.Humanistic Theory D.Behavior Theory Answer D is correct. Behavioral theory is the correct answer. Behavioral theory is a form of therapy looks to identify and help change potentially self-destructive or unhealthy behaviors. It's based on the idea that all behaviors are learned and that behaviors can be changed.

Joyce Epstein has developed a framework for defining six different types of parent involvement to help promote student's academic success. What is the first type of parent involvement?

A.Communicating B.Parenting C.Volunteering D.Decision making Answer B is correct. Parenting is the correct answer because it is the first type of parent involvement. Parenting is helping all families establish home environments to support children as students, offering parent education and other courses or training for parents (e.g., GED, college credit, family literacy), and family support programs to assist families with health, nutrition, and other services.

A child or youth who performs at or shows the potential for performing at a remarkably high level of accomplishment when compared to others of the same age, experience or environment and who: exhibits high-performance capability in an intellectual, creative or artistic area; possesses an unusual capacity for leadership; or excels in a specific academic field. What is this known as?

A.Creativity B.Twice-Exceptional C.Advanced Placement (AP) D.Gifted and Talented Answer D is correct. The correct answer is gifted and talented. Gifted and talented is defined as a student that exhibits high-performance capability in an intellectual, creative, or artistic area; possesses an unusual capacity for leadership; or excels in a specific academic field.

As it relates to being a school counselor, the concept of placing your data into a chart for the purpose of comparing the statistics is known as:

A.Cross-tabulations B.Disaggregation C.Longitudinal D.Aggregate data Answer A is correct. Cross-tabulations is the correct answer because it simple means to put the data into a chart for comparison. Cross-tabulations are simply data tables that present the results of the entire group of respondents, as well as results from subgroups of survey respondents. With them, you can examine relationships within the data that might not be readily apparent when only looking at total survey responses.

The school counselor observed a teacher in her elementary classroom. The teacher was teaching and modeling for the students on how to add new information to their science journals. Using an example, she had made she showed the students what the journal should look like. Then she showed an example from a student in the class of how the journal should not look. This student has a specific learning disability and has a hard time writing and spelling. When his journal was shown to the class, he put his head down and did not make eye contact or interact with the teacher. After class, the school counselor scheduled a meeting with the teacher. Which of the following is NOT a strategy the school counselor should discuss with the teacher about the bias she witnessed in class?

A.Cultivate Awareness and Concern B.Practice Mindfulness C.Engage in Perspective Taking D.Put the teacher on a growth plan Answer D is correct. A growth plan is considered to help a teacher improve her skills and performance in areas where she lacks competency. Putting the teacher on a growth plan is the correct answer because this is the teachers first time showing bias behavior, using this time as a teaching moment for the teacher is more pertinent than a punishment.

This term is a widely implemented, culturally responsive framework using prevention and intervention activities to promote a safe school climate and positive academic and behavioral student outcomes. What term is the following definition referring to?

A.Cultural relevance B.Data-Based Individualization (DBI) C.Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) D.Wraparound Answer C is correct. Positive behavior interventions and supports is the correct answer. Positive behavior interventions and supports are strategies employed by schools to effectively expect, teach, and encourage pro-social behavior in classrooms and school-wide. A positive approach includes a focus on prevention, early intervention, teamwork between all adults working with students, meeting student needs, and building a positive school climate.

Knowledge of diversity is important as a school counselor. Which of the following is a concept that recognizes the differences among people of different nations, backgrounds, and ethnicities, and the importance of bridging them together?

A.Cultural stereotypes B.Cultural differences C.Cross culture D.Student diversity Answer C is correct. Cross culture is the correct answer. Cross culture increases a students' and educators understanding of their own and other cultures; it enhances one's knowledge of the norms, values, and behaviors that exist in cultures, and it allows the students and educators to discern and communicate cultural differences with sensitivity and confidence.

Social media use can factor into any number of presenting issues and challenges. In the school setting social media can have both a positive and negative influences on today's students of all ages. Which of the following is a positive influence of social media?

A.Cyberbullying B.Social anxiety C.Body image issues D.It enhances learning Answer D is correct. Social media enhances learning is the correct answer. Social media promotes self-directed learning, which prepares students to search for answers and make decisions independently. When reinforced in a classroom setting, these social media skills can be guided and refined to produce better learning outcomes and critical awareness. It is often easier and more convenient to access information, provide information and communicate via social media. Tutors and students can be connected to each other and can make good use of these platforms for the benefit of their learning and teaching.

Making DATA Work is a simple four-step process that will help school counselors use accountability strategies to address educational issues at their sites. The word DATA in the title of the process model is an acronym. What does the "D" stand for in DATA?

A.Data B.Design C.Decision making D.Data analysis Answer B is correct. The "D" in DATA stands for design. In the Making DATA Work process design is your first step. Ask yourself, what is your ultimate goal by using these statistics?

SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Based when discussing goals for children. In terms of the acronym SMART, what does it mean if a goal is achievable?

A.Data can be collected on the goal B.The goal is well-defined C.The goal challenges the student and is realistic D.A deadline is given for the goal Answer C is correct. The goal challenges the student and is realistic is the correct answer. A -Achievable means the goal needs to be challenging but remain realistic. All children learn and develop at their own speed, so asking all children to do the same task might not always be achievable for each individual child.

The American School Counselors Association (ASCA) has a four-step model to better ensure accountability in the development of school counseling programs. Which of the following is the fourth step of this model?

A.Develop a foundation B.Evaluate accountability C.Decide how the program will be managed D.Determine the best method of delivery for the program Answer B is correct. Evaluate accountability is the correct answer. Evaluate accountability. In this final step, school counselors determine how enrolled students have changed through program implementation. By using test score data, personal evaluations of student progress from counseling sessions, and staff evaluations, counselors can evaluate whether or not the program achieved its goals, and therefore, determine its level of accountability to students.

In the 2014 edition of the American Counseling Association (ACA) code of ethics it is the first to have an entire section (Section H) devoted to electronic forms of communication. Which of the following is NOT an electronic form of communication added to the 2014 edition of the ACA Code of Ethics?

A.Distance counseling B.Cell phones C.Technology D.Social Media Answer B is correct. Cell phones is the correct answer because it was not one of the three electronic forms of communication added to the 2014 ACA code of ethics. Cellphones can be an educational tool for students with the proper structure and support. Schools have already found ways to use computers and other technology and should look to find ways to incorporate smartphones as well.

The school counselor certification in Texas qualifies counselors to work with all students in all grade levels EC-12. To become a school counselor in Texas all of the following are required by the state of Texas EXCEPT?

A.Doctoral degree and state-approved school counselor preparation program B.Two years' teaching experience C.Master's degree and state-approved school counselor preparation program D.Take and pass The TExES School Counselor (252) exam Answer A is correct. Doctoral degree and state-approved school counselor preparation program is the correct answer because school counselors must possess a master's degree from an accredited school and complete a state-approved school counselor preparation program not a doctoral degree. Many colleges in Texas offers a PhD program is also a great choice if you see yourself as a clinical leader or researcher in the counseling field. Through counseling education and supervision in a PhD program, you can gain the skills and knowledge for career advancement in a variety of professional settings, such as hospitals and clinics.

Which of the following is NOT a major area of guidance and counseling in schools?

A.Educational guidance and counseling B.Vocational guidance and counseling C.Personal-social guidance and counselling D.Determining a disability and counselling Answer D is correct. Determining a disability and counselling is the correct answer. School counselors strive to help all students achieve their full potential, including students with disabilities, within the scope of the school counseling program but their main area of guidance and counseling is not to determine or diagnose a disability. School counselors recognize their strengths and limitations in working with students with disabilities, they are aware of current research and seek to implement best practices in working with students presenting with any disability category and who, by reason thereof, need special education and related services.

All of the following are collaboration tools that parents and school counselor's use to foster effective communication EXCEPT?

A.Email B.Video Conferencing C.Communicating with the parent during car rider dismissal D.Apps Answer C is correct. Communicating with the parent during car rider dismissal is the correct answer. Sometimes as an educator you will find some parents are very difficult to get in contact with even with all the advancements in technology. However, stopping a parent while they are picking up their child is not an effective means of communication.

Which one of the following is a professional obligation counselors are expected to adhere to under the American Counseling Association (ACA) code of ethics?

A.Ensure clients they are expert counselors in all areas, even those in which they have no training B.Maintain a non-discriminatory approach in the counseling relationship C.Practice in multi-disciplinary areas regardless of training D.Make comments in professional settings on behalf of the ACA Answer B is correct. Maintain a non-discriminatory approach in the counseling relationship is the correct answer. The ACA expects all counseling professionals to adopt a non-discriminatory approach when working with clients which requires the equal treatment of an individual or group irrespective of their particular characteristics or beliefs.

There are four steps when setting up a school counseling program. What is the third step?

A.Establishing community partnerships Creating a calendar of events C.Needs assessment D.Setting up a guidance office Answer A is correct. Establishing community partnerships is the correct answer. School counselors frequently utilize community resources in their mission to support the needs of students. Effective school counseling programs create awareness within the surrounding community in regard to pertinent issues and the needs of the students and families. In other words, school counselors become liaisons between community resources and students. This step builds relationships between students and the community in which they live. These connections may help students find jobs and volunteer opportunities. In addition, community partners often bridge the gap in funding for special events or programs at the school.

Which of the following approaches takes into consideration the counseling components that are shared by all cultural groups?

A.Etic B.Emic C.Egocentric D.Ethnic Answer A is correct. Etic is the correct answer. An etic approach considers characteristics presumed to be shared by all cultural groups, such as identity development, acculturation, and social class differences.

Mrs. White, a school counselor at Rosehill Elementary School wants to plan a comprehensive, school wide anti-bullying program. She creates a checklist based on The Program Implementation Cycle which is a four-step process designed to assist her when planning the program. Which of the following steps is she utilizing when writing the following statement? "Establishing and communicating the roles and responsibilities for administrators, teachers, students, and parents in developing and maintaining a safe and supportive school environment".

A.Evaluating B.Organizing/ Planning C.Implementing D.Designing Answer B is correct. Organizing/ Planning is the correct answer. When using this step, the school counselor wants the school staff to commit to an action plan, form and convene the steering committee that will be involved in the program, and have an understanding and plan using the program development process.

Which of the following is an appropriate duty for a Texas school counselor?

A.Filling in as a substitute teacher when the regular teacher calls in sick B.Consulting with teachers about building classroom connections, effective classroom management and the role of non-cognitive factors in student success C.Performing disciplinary actions or assigning discipline consequences D.Keeping clerical records Answer B is correct. Consulting with teachers about building classroom connections, effective classroom management and the role of non-cognitive factors in student success is the correct answer. A school counselor and principal can work collaboratively to remove non-counseling duties from the school counselor's workload. In this way, the school counselor will be able to optimally support students through a comprehensive school counseling program to most effectively do and complete their counseling duties.

Everyone knows not to judge a book by its cover, but sometimes stereotypes become so prevalent that people may jump to conclusions without realizing it. The school counselor is planning to teach a staff development training to high school teachers regarding the "useful" or positive stereotypes vs the negative stereotypes. Which of the following is a "useful" or positive stereotype?

A.Girls are better at reading and boys are better at math B.The over-achiever teacher C.Girls are quieter than boys D.People in the United States are less educated than people in China Answer B is correct. The Over-Achiever Teacher; the teacher that has to have their class first at everything: first in fundraising, first to the lunchroom, first in reading goals, first in parent participation, and first to every PLC meeting-everything graded, in alphabetical order, with a "research-based strategy" ready to start the meeting. All in the name of education and "school spirit," of course is the correct answer. This stereotype does not have a negative undertone that some other stereotypes have. A positive stereotype is making a statistically accurate decision about an individual that can cast a positive light on a certain group or type of people.

The counseling program is presented through four delivery components; Guidance Curriculum, Individual Planning System, Responsive Services, and System Support. Which of the four delivery components supports the efforts of teachers, staff, parents, and other members of the community in promoting the educational, career, personal, and social development of students?

A.Guidance Curriculum B.Individual Planning System C.System Support D.Responsive Services Answer C is correct. System support is the correct answer. System Support includes indirect guidance management activities that maintain and enhance the total guidance program. Responsibilities in this component include staff and community relations, special research projects, committees, professional development, and student support.

A school counselor guides each student in planning, monitoring, and managing their educational, career, personal, and social development. To achieve this, school counselors work with other educational professionals to implement systemic activities that guide students in creating future goals and plans. What is this known as?

A.Guidance Curriculum B.Responsive Services C.Individual Student Planning D.System Support Answer C is correct. Individual student planning is the correct answer. Individual Planning includes counseling activities to assist all students to plan, monitor, and manage their own academic achievement as well as their personal and career development. Issues address personal/social, academic and career.

Mary's parents want to review her STAAR assessment booklet and answer sheet that was administered to her. They contact their school's counselor to see what steps are involved to review the STAAR assessment booklet and answer sheet. Which of the following is NOT allowed according to TEA (Texas Education Agency) when reviewing their child's STAAR assessment booklet and answer sheet?

A.Having the testing materials mailed their house B.Making a written request C.Submitting a FERPA release D.Submitting the request Answer A is correct. Having the testing materials mailed to their house is the correct answer because you will not be mailed a copy of the materials. TEA considers these documents to be confidential. Your inspection will take place in the presence of a TEA employee either in Austin or in one of the 20 Educational Service Centers around the state.

Family involvement in school activities positively influences the educational progress of children. Which of the following is NOT a positive influence of family involvement?

A.Help the student become popular B.Reduced dropout rates C.Increased motivation to socialize D.Increased academic success Answer A is correct. Help the student become popular is the correct answer. Family involvement is important in a student's educational career. Family involvement does increase motivation to socialize which could provide the student with lots of friends but becoming popular it is not a positive influence of family involvement.

Every year, Mrs. Rodriguez's students arrive to her classroom with a set of challenges they need to overcome to develop to their fullest potential. She works hard with the school counselor to help all students use their skills and knowledge to perform well in school now so that they may also perform professionally in the workplace later on in life. This is called academic development. Which of the following is NOT an example of a way teachers and school counselors can help students develop academically?

A.Homework B.Study group C.After school tutoring D.Supplemental instruction Answer A is correct. Homework is the correct answer. Homework can do more harm than good. Researchers have cited drawbacks, including boredom and burnout toward academic material, less time for family and extracurricular activities, lack of sleep and increased stress.

This is the heart of differentiated instruction. It provides opportunities for students to be part of many different groups based on their readiness, interest, or learning style. Which of the following term best represents this description?

A.Homogeneous grouping B.Heterogeneous grouping C.Peer tutoring D.Flexible grouping Answer D is correct. Flexible grouping is the correct answer. Flexible grouping is a highly effective strategy for creating an inclusive classroom culture that honors learner variability. Use data to put students into small groups for instruction. Your groups should change frequently in response to the lesson outcome and student needs. Students can be grouped at the same skill level or with varying skill levels.

A school counselor conducts a needs assessment with students. Using the data gathered from the needs assessment, what does the counselor need to consider?

A.Identify small-group topics B.Design classroom guidance curriculum C.Identify individual students needs D.Evaluate the previous year's program Answer D is correct. Evaluate the previous year's program is the correct answer. The focus of the needs assessment is to identify strengths of the current program, but also to identify weaknesses. Needs assessments can also be used to create results reports so that the information gathered from the study can be shown to administrators, teachers, and support staff to better serve student needs. Which is why evaluating the previous year's program is an important part of a needs assessment.

School counselors can provide culturally responsive counseling. Which of the following is NOT an example of culturally responsive counseling?

A.Identifying the impact of family culture upon student performance B.Inadvertently saying something bias about a culture C.Ensuring all students' rights are respected and all students' needs are met D.Addressing the impact poverty and social class have on student achievement Answer B is correct. Inadvertently saying something bias about a culture is not an example of culturally responsive counseling. Those of us who don't overtly exhibit bias and prejudice sometimes inadvertently say things without realizing the ramifications of the things we say. The goal is not to learn every characteristic of every culture but simply to be aware that some behaviors or attitudes of students may be attributed to their culture, and therefore, we as educators need to be sensitive to their cultural identity.

When addressing bullying, there are typically four main steps to managing the bullying: Tell someone, ask the bully to stop, ignore it and walk away, and look confident. Which best describes the step you should take for asking the bully to stop?

A.If you're not bothered by what they say or do, they may find a more rewarding target. B.Make sure that you stand up straight, put back your shoulders and stride out confidence. C.You could tell your friend, your parents, a teacher, or another trusted adult. D.This is a very difficult step but the bully may not be aware of how bad they are making you feel. Answer D is correct. This is the correct answer. Being bullied is unpleasant and unacceptable but consider telling the bully how you feel might have a positive effect and the bullying might stop

School counselor representatives from each grade level in a school district are considering school wide practices to put in place that will support student's emotional wellness at every grade level. They have established that one goal for this purpose should be to create positive school climates. Which of the following practices related to this goal would be the most effective initial step in supporting all students' emotional well-being?

A.Implementing cross-grade-level social activities for students at every school B.Adopting a formal curriculum and materials for teaching targeted skills to students at different age levels C.Integrating activities that address affective objectives into academic instruction D.Creating a common language to proactively and consistently teach students desired behaviors Answer D is correct. Creating a common language to proactively and consistently teach students desired behaviors is the correct answer. This is the most effective initial step in supporting all students' emotional well-being because it provides all students and in every grade level to have an understanding of goals and expectations.

Which of the following is NOT a step related to the effective teaching practice of explicit instruction?

A.Implicit Knowledge B.Guided Practice C.Modeling D.Independent Practice Answer A is correct. Implicit instruction is the correct answer because it is not one of the steps of explicit instruction. By implicit instruction, we refer to teaching where the instructor does not outline such goals or make such explanations overtly, but rather simply presents the information or problem to the student and allows the student to make their own conclusions and create their own conceptual structures and assimilate the information in the way that makes the most sense to them.

A 3rd grade classroom teacher has asked the school counselor to teach a lesson on self-control. When she begins teaching, the lesson the classroom becomes noisy, unengaged and disruptive. Which practice did the school counselor use?

A.Incorporating movement B.Handing out a worksheet C.Allowing group work D.Chunking lessons Answer B is correct. Handing out a worksheet is the correct answer because it can have some negative effects in the classroom such as lack of hands-on learning and can discourage abstract thinking. Worksheets can also discourage socialization and creativity among children. Worksheets do not allow children to work together or collaborate on a project. At an age where social skills are critical and still forming, the activities in our classrooms should promote collaboration, not discourage it. While handing out a worksheet can be effective at times, it does not engage students or encourage deeper learning or growth.

Which of the following is NOT a key component of Response to Intervention (RtI)?

A.Instructional Scaffolding B.Universal Screening C.Progress Monitoring D.Multi-tiered Interventions Answer A is correct. Instructional scaffolding is the correct answer because it is a good teaching method and can be used in Tier interventions but is not one of the key component of RtI. Instructional scaffolding is a process through which a teacher adds supports for students in order to enhance learning and aid in the mastery of tasks. The teacher does this by systematically building on students' experiences and knowledge as they are learning new skills.

This term refers to a student's ability to work and collaborate with fellow students. With this skill, it gives students the ability to interact with people through effective listening and communication. It is important for students to have interpersonal skills because it helps them connect with people and benefits their personality development too. Which of the following terms is the definition referring to?

A.Intrapersonal effectiveness B.Interpersonal effectiveness C.Cross-cultural effectiveness D.Leadership effectiveness Answer B is correct. Interpersonal effectiveness is the correct answer. Interpersonal effectiveness is: Students will arrive at an appreciation of their personal culture for what it is, while at the same time not disrespecting other cultures. Students will vow to respect fellow students and their cultural makeup. Students will learn to deal with and relate to other students and accept both their likenesses and differences. Students will be educated on the fallacies of stereotyping students based on their appearance or beliefs. Students will learn how to express themselves in an effective manner. Students will learn how to ask for help, but only after they have made a strong effort to accomplish a task on their own

Why is it important to involve parents in determining what school counseling programs should be initiated?

A.It shows parental input is valued and respected B.It mandates that parents become involved in school counseling programs C.It allows parents to see how overworked school counselors are D.It prevents parents from involving themselves with school counseling issues Answer A is correct. It shows parental input is valued and respected is the correct answer. By allowing parents to be active decision makers in the school counseling process, it demonstrates that their input is valued and respected and encourages their involvement, thus promoting academic success.

The school counselor wants to encourage different activities to promote diversity and inclusion at the school and make each student feel welcome. Which of the following is NOT an activity that would promote diversity and inclusion

A.Learn how to pronounce each student's name correctly B.Host a Multicultural Day C.Create a multicultural collage D.Create a diversity flower Answer A is correct. Learning how to pronounce each student's name correctly is the correct answer. Although, this is very important and should not be overlooked it isn't an activity that the school can do together to promote diversity and inclusion.

The school counselor wants to encourage different activities to promote diversity and inclusion at the school and make each student feel welcome. Which of the following is NOT an activity that would promote diversity and inclusion?

A.Learn how to pronounce each student's name correctly B.Host a Multicultural Day C.Create a multicultural collage D.Create a diversity flower Answer A is correct. Learning how to pronounce each student's name correctly is the correct answer. Although, this is very important and should not be overlooked it isn't an activity that the school can do together to promote diversity and inclusion.

As an educator our duty to teach decision making skills to our students so they become thoughtful, engaged, and productive decision makers. The decision-making model steps are as follows: identify the problem/conflict to be solved, gather relevant information, brainstorm possible solutions, identify potential consequences, make a choice, and take action.Which description below best explains brainstorming possible solutions?

A.List the options B.Weigh the possible outcomes C.Evaluate your decision/how will it affect you later D.State the situation Answer B is correct. Weigh the possible outcomes is the correct answer. Brainstorming is a problem-solving activity where students build on or develop higher order thinking skills and encourages creative thought. Brainstorming encourages students to think creatively (out of the box), encouraging all students to share their ideas, no matter how far "out there" they may seem.

This goal is something that a student wants to achieve in the near future. Some examples are developing healthy coping skills and improving communication skills. What type of goal is it?

A.Long-term B.Smart C.Short-term D.IEP Answer C is correct. Short-term goal is the correct answer. A short-term goal is something you want to do in the near future. The near future can mean today, this week, this month, or even this year. A short-term goal is something you want to accomplish soon.

A learning disability is considered a disorder in which basic psychological processes are affected and hinders a child's ability to process information. Which of the following is NOT an area of learning generally impacted by a specific learning disability?

A.Mathematics disability B.Written Expression disability C.Reading disability D.Social Interaction disability Answer D is correct. Social interaction disability is not a specific learning disability. Social interaction plays an important role in learning. Interacting with other people has proven to be quite effective in assisting the learner to organize their thoughts, reflect on their understanding, and finding gaps in their reasoning but it is not a criteria of a specific learning disability.

The above rating scale is used so children can reflect on themselves in behavior, emotions, actions, and learning in order to become a better version of themselves. What is this assessment called?

A.Motivation assessment B.Self-assessments C.Progress monitoring D.Peer-assessment Answer B is correct. Self-assessment is the correct answer. Self-assessment is extremely important for children because it allows them to reflect on their own work in order to improve and develop it further. Self-assessment encourages students to reflect and look at where they went wrong in order to help them improve for the future. Not only that, it's a fantastic way to encourage children to improve their own efforts and empower them to take control of their own learning.

Which of the following is NOT a school counseling data collection tool?

A.Needs Assessment B.Self Assessment C.Motivational Assessment D.Summative assessments Answer D is correct. Summative assessments is the correct answer because it is not a tool normally used by a school counselor to collect data. Summative assessments are used to evaluate student learning, skill acquisition, and academic achievement at the conclusion of a defined instructional period typically at the end of a project, unit, course, semester, program, or school year. Generally speaking, summative assessments are in the form of a test, quiz, project or assignment.

Which of the following is NOT a tool school counselors use to ensure accountability when working with students?

A.Needs assessments B.Action plans C.Data Collection D.Results reports Answer C is correct. Data collection is the correct answer. Data collection is the process of gathering and measuring information on variables of interest, in an established systematic fashion that enables one to answer stated research questions, test hypotheses, and evaluate outcomes.

When analyzing demographic data what should a school counselor avoid?

A.Nothing if the student is from a low socio-economic background B.Allowing yourself to make sweeping generalizations C.Trying to identify student needs D.Allowing any of it to influence your decisions Answer B is correct. Allowing yourself to make sweeping generalizations is the correct answer and should be avoided. Whether those generalizations are seen as negative or positive as a school counselor you should be unbiased and create a positive environment for all students.

At the end of each grading period, Ms. Petty, a school counselor, has students review their academic portfolios, which include a variety of assignments from all content areas. For each content area, she asks students to identify in their work one specific strength and one area that needs improvement. In using the strategy, Ms. Petty is primarily helping students develop which of the following?

A.Organizational skills B.Interpersonal skills C.Goal-setting skills D.Problem-solving skills Answer C is correct. Goal-setting skills is the correct answer because it identifies strengths and areas in need of improvement. It allows students to use self-reflection in the learning process, which in turn allows them to establish learning goals. Goal setting for students could focus on healthy habits, behaviors, and personal achievements.

There are several best practices for college and career readiness that school counselors can implement related to parents, communities, and school-specific strategies. Which is NOT an effective strategy for preparing students for college and career readiness?

A.Parental Involvement B.Community Outreach C.Declaring a major D.College Affordability Answer C is correct. Declaring a major is the correct answer. While declaring a major is important forcing students to choose a major before graduating from high school may give the student an overall dislike of their college experience. Generally, at most four-year colleges you don't have to decide on a major until the end of your sophomore year. This gives you time to try a couple of classes and see what you like before you decide, and earn general education credits that count toward your degree.

Restorative Justice is a flexible set of practices that are adaptable to many purposes, enabling youth and adults to bring forward their "best self." Which of the following is NOT a successful application of restorative justice?

A.Peacemaking Circles B.Conflict scenario/situation cards C.Restorative Chats D.Mediation Answer B is correct. Conflict scenario/situation cards is the correct answer because conflict situation cards are not an approach of restorative justice. Conflict scenario/situation cards offer everyday social scenarios that happen in school, which will prompt children to think about how to respond to them. Use this resource with the whole class or in small working groups to see how children respond to these conflict situations.

Poor children have more repeated years in school, lower test scores, and increased expulsion and dropout rates. Chronic stress can affect concentration and memory, which interferes with learning. The image and description above refer to poverty and —

A.Physical health risks B.Psychosocial outcomes C.Academic achievement D.Emotional (psychosocial) problems Answer C is correct. Poverty and academic achievement is the correct answer because poor children have more repeated years in school, lower test scores, and increased expulsion and dropout rates. Chronic stress can affect concentration and memory, which interferes with learning.

An 8th grade Jr. High student came to speak with the school counselor about the courses he is interested in taking during high school. He is very interested in taking courses that allow high school students to simultaneously earn high school and college credit while still in high school. What type of course is he asking about?

A.Pre-Advanced Placement (Pre-AP) B.Advanced Placement (AP) C.Dual Credit D.Honors Courses Answer C is correct. Dual Credit is the correct answer. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) defines dual credit as a system in which an eligible high school student enrolls in college course(s) and receives credit for the course(s) from both the college and high school. Dual credit courses may be taught on the high school campus by an approved instructor or on the college campus. Dual credit courses include both academic and technical courses. Credit is awarded when the student passes the course and is included on a college transcript upon completion.

Mrs. Oakes has reported to the school counselor that three of her fifth period students are being bullied at lunch and have difficulty learning because they are so upset when they come to her class. The school counselor remembers the Texas Education Code that states "the school counselor shall design a program to include a responsive services component to intervene on behalf of any student whose immediate personal concerns or problems put the student's continued educational, career, personal, or social development at risk". Responsive services support students by offering support in their time of need. Responsive services have three levels of support which is NOT a level of responsive services?

A.Prevention B.Intervention C.Remediation D.Crisis Answer B is correct. Intervention is the correct answer because it is not one of the three levels of a school counselors' response. During an intervention, a counselor assists students to become independent learners. Academic responsibility is taught, encouraged, and reinforced in a partnership between school and home. Aptitudes, interests, and learning styles that relate to academic achievement are strengthened through this collaborative effort.

Conflict resolution can be taught most effectively in which type of setting?

A.Primary prevention groups B.Structured intervention groups C.Individual counseling D.Group counseling Answer A is correct. Primary prevention groups is the correct answer. Primary prevention groups are most beneficial for dealing with potential issues. School counselors should be cognizant of the school environment. This awareness will allow the counselor to determine main areas in which students are struggling.

As school counselors, you are entrusted with the tremendous task of attending to the academic, career and social/emotional growth of every student in your school. This responsibility entails the actions and decision surrounding how we develop, create, execute, and modify our comprehensive school counseling program. School counselors conceptualize their data in three primary categories. Which of the following is NOT one of the three primary categories a school counselor uses to conceptualize data?

A.Process data B.Program data C.Perception data D.Outcome data Answer B is correct. Program data is the correct answer because program data is not one of the three primary categories used by a school counselor when conceptualizing data. Program data provide information on all school programs. These data represent the conditions directly under the control of the school, such as its curriculum scope and sequence, academic programs, teacher training and experience, socio economic status (SES), professional development, after- school programming, and Title I programs.

What are ongoing educational opportunities for counselors and other educators called?

A.Professional development B.Peer networking C.Specialized training D.Leadership development Answer A is correct. Professional development is the correct answer. Professional development ensures that counselors are always learning and improving. These opportunities for ongoing education help counselors improve skills, which may lead to increased opportunities for employment.

In establishing school and community partnerships, school counselors work with students, their families, school staff and community members in fostering partnerships. Which of the following can the school counselor do to cause a negative impact on the community?

A.Protesting at a pro-life parade B.Inform the school community about relevant community resources C.Work to end racism/bias by collaborating with families, educators, businesses and community organizations D.Foster resilience through equity-based school, family, and community partnerships Answer A is correct. Protesting at a pro-life parade is the correct answer. School counselors often face ethical issues when working with students because of specific cultural values, political preferences, customs and religious beliefs. Counselors must address situations carefully to avoid any hint of prejudice. School counselors are required to maintain the highest level of integrity to protect each student's individual rights and must ensure that all students are treated fairly and appropriately.

A school counselor who is initiating a consultation relationship with the parents/guardians of a student who is experiencing significant behavioral difficulties should begin by?

A.Providing assurance that no one is to blame for the student's difficulties B.Seeking additional background information about the student C.Communicating care and concern for the student and their success in school D.Describing the educational implications of the student's difficulties Answer C is correct. Communicating care and concern for the student and their success in school is the correct answer. Your goal as a school counselor should be to come from a place of caring and concern, and keep the focus on working together to connect the family with the best possible resources to help the student.

The school counselor, Mrs. Utley wants to promote mental health awareness. Which of the following is NOT a myth about mental health?

A.Psychiatric problems result from personal weakness B.Psychiatric disorders result from bad parenting C.Children grow out of mental health problems D.Mental health of students can affect their education, social life, and emotional well-being Answer D is correct. The mental health of students can affect their education, social life, and emotional well-being is the correct answer. Students struggling with their mental health may experience greater challenges throughout school and adulthood, while those not struggling may have a greater zest for their education and social experiences. Mental health problems can affect a student's energy level, concentration, dependability, mental ability, and optimism, hindering performance.

A student's cultural background is likely to have the greatest influence on which of the following aspects of the student's development?

A.Rate of cognitive development B.Perceptions about self and others C.Desire for acceptance by peers D.Ability to learn through observation Answer B is correct. Perceptions about self and others is the correct answer because it has the greatest influence on a student's development. Although culture has a pervasive influence on many aspects of personal development and learning, some traits are considered largely universal. Of the response options provided, only an individual's perceptions about self and others are generally acknowledged to be shaped in substantial ways by interactions characteristic of the specific culture within which one is raised.

All of the following are steps you can take to apply to colleges EXCEPT?

A.Request to have your official transcript sent to colleges B.Write your college essay C.Figure out who your college roommate will be D.Carefully read and fill out the application form Answer C is correct. Figure out who your college roommate will be is the correct answer. Although, the student could feel this is an important decision, it doesn't have anything to do with applying for a college or University.

Which of the following is a type of discipline that when implemented, has seen a reduction in suspensions, increased connection to school and learning and a better relationship between parents, admin, staff, students?

A.Restorative B.Preventative C.Supportive D.Corrective Answer A is correct. Restorative discipline is the correct answer. Restorative discipline is a relational approach to building school climate and addressing student behavior. The approach fosters belonging over exclusion, social engagement over control, and meaningful accountability over punishment.

CPCS and ASCA recommends that school counselors spend 80 percent or more of their time in direct and indirect services to students. The other 20 percent or less of time should be focused on program planning and school support. Which of the following is NOT considered a task the school counselor should use in that 20 percent or less of time?

A.Reviewing school data B.Providing Group Counseling C.Creating closing the gap action plans D.Analyzing disaggregated data Answer B is correct. Providing Group Counseling is the correct answer because group counseling is considered part of the 80% indirect or direct services to students. Group counseling, which involves a number of students working on shared tasks and developing supportive relationships in a group setting, is an efficient, effective and positive way of providing direct service to students with academic, career and social/emotional developmental issues and situational concerns.

What is a strategy that asks students and teachers to share the role of teacher by allowing both to lead the discussion about a given reading? It also involves four strategies that guides the discussion-predicting, question generating, summarizing and clarifying.

A.Scaffolding B.Reciprocal teaching C.Think-aloud D.Metacognition Answer B is correct. Reciprocal teaching is the correct answer because it refers to an instructional activity in which students become the teacher in small group reading sessions. Teachers model, then help students learn to guide group discussions using four strategies: summarizing, question generating, clarifying, and predicting.

Which is NOT a school counselor's role in the special education referral process?

A.School counselor sends home consent for special education testing B.School counselor sets up intervention for the student C.School counselor sets up a referral meeting with staff and parents D.School counselor sends paperwork home with student to gain more information about the referral Answer A is correct. A school counselor sends home consent for special education testing is the correct answer. Once a decision has been made to obtain special education consent it is best practice for the school counselor to pass the referral information and paperwork to the school's educational diagnostician. In Texas, it is recommended that the person who obtains consent for testing is a trained individual can fully explain the evaluation process to the parent/guardian or adult student.

The Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs has five different sections to help create, validate, or improve their campus or district school counseling programs. Which section is being described in the statement below? "Describes foundational program components that communicate program purpose and philosophy through its mission statement and definition, rationale for the program, and assumptions of conditions necessary for successful program implementation. How to ideas are provided to assist districts and campuses in writing their foundational components"

A.Section II B.Section I C.Section III D.Section IV Answer C is correct. Section III is the correct answer. Section III of the Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs serves as a how-to, intended to assist school counselors in producing a local school counseling program mission statement; defining various aspects of the comprehensive school counseling program at the campus level; generating rationale for the campus-based school counseling program; as well as reviewing the necessary assumptions for effective implementation of the school counseling program, and evaluating the existing conditions and resources available to the campus school counseling program in your district. These structural elements are important pieces to consider and describe before moving forward with development and implementation. Additionally, Section III will outline the appropriate steps to take to quantify various data points and conduct essential needs assessments to determine the most appropriate and meaningful programmatic goals that will direct the activities the school counselor will undertake. This section will also offer methods for prioritizing these foundational components to establish target areas to direct the time and efforts of the school counselor. Finally, this section will discuss and offer recommendations on strategies to employ in evaluating the school counseling program.

Frank is a freshman in high school and he's not sure what he wants to do when he graduates. Does he go to college? Does he choose a trade? Does he know what kind of career he is interested in? The possibilities are endless, and he doesn't know what's right for him. He makes an appointment to go speak with his school counselor to learn about different options and help figure out what he should pursue. Which is NOT a career assessment tool the counselor should choose to help Frank decides what he wants to do when he graduates?

A.Self-assessment B.Interest inventories C.Values assessments D.STAAR EOC Answer D is correct. The STAAR EOC (End-of-Course) assessments is the correct answer. The STAAR EOC assessments measure students' academic performance in core high school courses (Algebra I, English I, English II, biology, U.S. history). These assessments became part of the graduation requirements and even though passing your EOC is an important part of graduation they are not considered a career assessment.

A state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by stress that must be avoided by professional counselors is:

A.Self-regulation B.Burnout C.Self-monitoring D.Self-awareness Answer B is correct. Burnout is the correct answer. Burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by stress. In order to prevent this, professional counselors must have a high level of self-awareness and keep themselves emotionally healthy.

Joseph is a freshman in a local high school and he is sitting in his geometry class one day when another classmate accidentally knocks a chair over with a loud 'bang!' Joseph, whose home was recently robbed by burglars, jumps out of his chair screaming at the sound of the falling chair. He is shaking uncontrollably, and it takes him several minutes to recover his equanimity. Joseph is suffering from?

A.Social anxiety B.Depression C.Generalized anxiety D.Hypervigilance Answer D is correct. Hypervigilance is the correct answer. After a traumatic event, a child may become hypervigilant. This means that the child is jumpy and easily triggered by loud sounds or by anything that may remind them of a dangerous scenario. Adolescent joking may no longer seem funny and the young person may no longer enjoy the company of others. The young person may be alienated from those who haven't had similar experiences or who may seem insensitive. Emotions may be exaggerated and the child or adolescent may easily become involved in conflict.

School-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) programs help students develop strategies. Which is NOT a strategy of cognitive behavioral therapy CBT?

A.Solve problems B.Regulate emotions C.Help students recognize the competencies they possess D.Change helpful patterns of thought and behavior Answer C is correct. Help students recognize the competencies they possess is the correct answer. Helping students recognize the competencies they possess is not a component of CBT.

According to The Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs (CSCP), rationale for the school counseling program can be determined by reviewing various assessment results. Which of the following is NOT an assessment that school counselors review?

A.State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) B.Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test (PSAT) C.Woodcock-Johnson IV test of cognitive abilities (WJ-IV) D.Informal needs assessments Answer C is correct. Woodcock-Johnson IV test of cognitive abilities (WJ-IV) is the correct answer. The WJ IV Tests of Cognitive Abilities includes 18 tests for measuring general intellectual ability, broad and narrow cognitive abilities, academic domain-specific aptitudes, and related aspects of cognitive functioning. The WJ-IV is administered by a trained educator normally an educational diagnostician or a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP) to determine if a student meets TEA criteria for a disability under special education.

The following are the eight domains that constitute the responsibilities of the professional school counselor: • Program Management • Guidance • Counseling • Consultation • Coordination • Student Assessment • Professional Behavior • Professional Standards This responsibility domain is the process in which the consultant (counselor) works with the consultee (parent, teacher, administrator) with the goal of bringing positive change and academic success to the student.

A.Student assessment B.Professional behavior C.Guidance D.Consultation Answer D is correct. Consultation is the correct answer. According to the Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs, "The consultation domain is when counselors, functioning as consultants, advocate for students and provide professional expertise to help faculty, staff, administrators, parents, and other community members understand individual behavior and human relationships. Counselors interpret relevant information to these persons concerning the development and needs of students. The counselor consults with others to increase the effectiveness of student education and promote student success. Counselors may use consultation competencies in any of the four components of a comprehensive, developmental guidance and counseling program".

What is a disadvantage of continued assessments?

A.Student progress is monitored B.Areas of weakness are identified C.Learning styles and goals can be modified D.Assessments can change a teacher's focus Answer D is correct. Assessments can change a teacher's focus is the correct answer. With too many assessments, this can take away from the enjoyment and inspiration towards teaching. With too many assessments, a teacher is also constantly teaching towards an assessment rather than building knowledge and skills.

An elementary school counselor in a culturally diverse school wants to promote the concept of pluralism. Which of the following class activities would best support this outcome?

A.Students are assigned to interview a member of their family about its cultural traditions. B.Students help create word walls in each classroom with vocabulary that is unique to their individual cultural backgrounds. C.Students attend presentations by community members from diverse cultures. D.Students create a class quilt in which students contribute squares that are designed to represent diverse cultural backgrounds. Answer D is correct. Students create a class quilt in which students contribute squares that are designed to represent diverse cultural backgrounds is the correct answer. The quilt activity acknowledges diverse cultures that are part of a larger whole, which is a developmentally appropriate method for illustrating this concept to students in schools. The quilt activity reinforces the idea that unique squares (i.e. cultures) combined to create a richer, more interesting quilt (i.e. community).

An eighth-grade student wants to understand the graduation requirements for the state of Texas. She meets with her school counselor to review the requirements and makes sure she is on track to graduate from high school on time. All of the following are graduation requirements EXCEPT?

A.Students must successfully earn required credits (22-26 credits) B.Pass all 5 End of Course (EOC) exams C.Students must successfully earn a minimum of 23 credits D.Fill out or opt out of a financial aid application Answer C is correct. Students must successfully earn a minimum of 23 credits to graduate is the correct answer. In the state of Texas, a student must earn a minimum of 22-26 credits to graduate depending on the graduation program.

This is an effort to support the campus needs. Administrators and school counselors should ensure that these duties do not interfere with the direct school counseling services that students require. What term is the above sentence referring to?

A.System support B.Non-counseling C.Fair share D.Support services Answer C is correct. Fair share duties is the correct answer. Fair share duties is an effort to support the campus needs. Administrators and school counselors should ensure that fair share duties do not interfere with the direct school counseling services that students require. It is imperative to be aware of, and monitor, fair share duties so that they do not develop into non-counseling duties, thus limiting a student's access to direct school counseling services.

Which major component of a comprehensive school counseling program most directly allows a school counselor to demonstrate school-level leadership?

A.System support B.Responsive services C.Individual student planning D.Counseling curriculum Answer A is correct. System support is the correct answer. System support services include consultation with teachers, support for the parent education program and community relations efforts, participation in the campus-based school improvement plans and goals, and provision of input from the students' perspective to policy-makers and instructional/ curriculum planners. Possible system support activities are attending leadership team meetings on a regular basis, attend parent/teacher conferences, student supervision, input on Response to Intervention (RtI) plans, and input on Section 504 eligibility.

What type of student aid is available in Texas, to students who are state residents but not US citizens and are ineligible to receive federal student aid but can apply for this state aid?

A.TEOG B.Institutional aid C.FAFSA D.TASFA Answer D is correct. TASFA stands for the Texas Application for State Financial Aid. It's meant for students who are ineligible for federal aid through FAFSA who are Texas residents, and went to high school for at least three years in the state. These include, but are not limited to, foreign nationals, legal permanent residents, and eligible non-citizens.

Mr. Nemo is starting his first school year as a school counselor. He is nervous to begin his first year and a fellow counselor gave him some tips on time management. Which is NOT a time management tip for school counselors?

A.Taking students files home to catch up on work B.Identifying the basics C.Use data to drive your program D.Help students help themselves Answer A is correct. Taking students files home to catch up on work is the correct answer. While there is no prohibition against teachers and school counselors taking home educational records, as a long-time educator I have found that setting aside "work" to spend time with your family and friends is priceless. I always share that giving yourself 'personal" time will help you in the long run. Also, your job is demanding and setting aside time for yourself and your "personal wellbeing" is not only good for you but also your students and coworkers. By taking out time for yourself, you are allowing yourself to work harder and keep your mind and ideas fresh which makes you a better school counselor.

The Texas Education Agency, or TEA, is in charge of public primary and secondary education in Texas. To help students who are disadvantaged to get a better education and find a more rewarding career path, what did the TEA developed?

A.Texas Science and Technology Scholarship Program B.State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness test (STAAR) C.Texas College and Career Readiness School Models (CCRSM) D.Texas College and Career Readiness Standards (CCRS) Answer C is correct. Texas College and Career Readiness School Models (CCRSM) Network, led by the TEA, brings together proven models under a single umbrella of support. Each model offers a unique pathway to postsecondary education while ensuring all students have the opportunity to achieve their highest potential.

An Elementary teacher, Mrs. Cooper emailed the school counselor a list of activities to help her student's struggling with social skills. Which of the following is NOT an activity used to help with social skills?

A.Use games and fun activities B.Take turns telling short stories or short pieces of information to each other C.Hand out a coloring page to each student that has all the emotions a student may feel in the classroom D.Practice decision making scenarios and strategies Answer C is correct. Handing out a coloring page to each student that has all the emotions a student may feel in the classroom is the correct answer. While handing out a coloring page can be appropriate every once in a while, it does not give students a time to interact with the teacher or share experiences that would promote social skills.

When assessing a student, the school counselor wants to make sure she is mindful of cultural factors such as race, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, and linguistic factors. Which of the following should the school counselor NOT consider?

A.Use only valid and reliable research-based tests and assessments that are culturally sensitive, in the student's preferred language and free of bias. B.Consider the student's developmental age, language skills, home language and competence level when determining an assessment's appropriateness. C.Use caution when selecting or using assessment techniques, making evaluations and interpreting the performance of populations not represented in the norm group on which an instrument is standardized. D.She should base the questions on her experiences and background. Answer D is correct. The school counselor should base the questions on her experiences and background is the correct answer because she should instead consider the culture of the children she is testing. During an assessment, a child that comes from a culturally and linguistically diverse background may not have had the exposure to the knowledge or experience that the questions are based off if the school counselor basis the questions on her background.

What is one strategy that a school counselor can implement to increase parent participation in their children's academics?

A.Use social media at your school to connect to parents B.Provide training sessions that teach parents to be tutors for their children C.Require parents to sign a form confirming that students have completed their homework D.Suggest that parents help students with homework every night Answer A is correct. Use social media at your school to connect to parents is the correct answer. The number of parents using social media is increasing at an alarming rate. Examine your school districts social media policy and begin planning to communicate on an ongoing basis using popular channels like Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and Google Plus. Social media provides excellent ways to connect parents to your school's website and begin engaging them.

The school counselor was grouping students based on their individual learning style to help the classroom teacher's work effectively when teaching all students. Using the VARK learning styles and the scenario below, determine which type of learning style this student is.This learner likes to: Make outlines to structure large amounts of information. Use flashcards to help you remember key terms and information. Assign colors to common themes in your notes. Mark important notes with colored pens or highlighters. Draw pictures, figures, and diagrams to accompany the information.

A.Visual Learning Style B.Auditory Learning Style C.Kinesthetic Learning Style (Tactile) D.Reading/Writing Learning Style Answer A is correct. Visual Learning Style is the correct because this type of learner is better able to retain information when it is presented to them in a graphic depiction, such as arrows, charts, diagrams, symbols, and more. Visual learners thrive with clear pictures of information hierarchy.

Mrs. Williams is interested in trending a topic on Mental health wellbeing. She wants to make sure the technology resource she chooses will reach the most students, staff members, and community members. Which technology should she use?

A.Webpage B.Blog C.Newsletter D.Social Media Answer D is correct. Social Media is the correct answer. Social media allows counselors to educate others about mental health and other trending topics that students could deal with on a daily basis. It can even connect people with the resources and services they need.

What reflects the relative importance of each domain within an individual counselor's job assignment?

A.Weighting B.Rating C.Average D.Summary Sheet Answer A is correct. Weighting is the correct answer. Weighting reflects the relative importance of each domain within an individual counselor's job assignment. A weight is assigned to each domain to reflect how much of a counselor's resources are expected to be appropriated to that domain.

As a school counselor, there is a wide range of tools and methods capable of facilitating communication, consultation, and collaboration in the educational environment, which one of the following is the most important method used to facilitate communication, consultation, and collaboration?

A.Written methods B.Face to face methods C.Active listening D.Technological Methods Answer C is correct. Actively listening is the correct answer. Actively listening is one of the most important parts of communication, as if we actively listen we can truly engage with the lesson, presentation, or team meeting.

Schools can systematically use a variety of resources-staff, information, and activities to focus resources toward the students and to assist individual students to develop and implement personalized plans. The purpose of this system is to guide all students as they plan, monitor, and manage their own educational, career, and personal-social development. This system is called —

A.individual planning. B.personal planning. C.educational planning. D.co-curricular planning. Answer A is correct. Individual planning is the correct answer. Through the individual planning system, students can: Set challenging educational, career, and personal-social goals that are based on self-knowledge and information about school, the world of work, and their society; Make plans for achieving short-, intermediate-, and long-term goals; Analyze how their strengths and weaknesses enhance or hinder the achievement of their goals; Assess their current progress toward their goals; and Make decisions that reflect their plans.

The practice of developing an understanding of how each student learns best, and then tailoring instruction to meet students' individual needs is an example of —

A.instructional scaffolding. B.differentiated instruction. C.mastery learning. D.collaborative learning. Answer B is correct. Differentiated instruction is the correct answer. Differentiated instruction is a way of teaching that tailors instruction to meet all students' learning needs. Instead of teaching the entire class at one level of difficulty or using a single instructional strategy, educators can practice differentiation to give students options for taking in the information, understanding the concept, and demonstrating what they learn.