In Service of Mission: Assessing Catholic School Guidance Counselors

Abstract

Catholic schools are set apart from public schools in that Catholic schools aim to create for the school community an atmosphere enlivened by the Gospel spirit of freedom and charity. Those who serve in Catholic schools, therefore, need to understand their role as unique, that is, faith driven. The purpose of this study was to assess this uniqueness as understood and practiced by Catholic school counselors. The findings of this study note positive trends among Catholic school counselors, particularly in terms of academic preparation and training as well as some incorporation of Catholic identity and mission into their ministry with students. Among these findings, the most significant is that Catholic school counselors need to incorporate the identity and unique mission of the Catholic Church more effectively into their work with students, parents, teachers, and administrators. Beginning with the hiring interview and the orientation process, Catholic school counselors must make a conscious effort to thread the Catholic identity, as it is embodied in the school's unique mission, into their guidance programs, thereby distinguishing what they do as a ministry rather than a job.