Social workers, counsellors guide to the proper path

In-school social workers and guidance counsellors help students navigate a host of challenges that span social and emotional well-being, family dynamics, academic achievement, career choices and university admission. Whether at the elementary or high school level, the role of these trusted advisers is constantly changing along with education, technology and cultural mores.

Montcrest School in Toronto (JK to G8 co-ed) brought Daniela Aptowitzer on board four years ago as its first social worker (given the school educates to grade 8 only, it does not have a guidance counsellor). Aptowitzer provides one-one-one counselling as well as in-class social-emotional discussions on topics important to students. In her relatively short time at the school, she has seen a change in the nature of issues presented in large part due to COVID-19. “There is more support being provided for mental health, students retreating into themselves, gender and identity, than in previous years. Parents are also reaching out with questions or concerns for which I offer guidance and resources,” she says. “Maintaining confidentiality and building trust with students to help them work through their individual set of challenges is paramount. As is maintaining broad communication between school and family, along with any outside services that may be providing assistance, so that a holistic approach can be taken and supported in the school setting.”

Recently the gender and sexuality alliance at Montcrest created an allyship to bring discussion to the forefront and help educate the broader campus community. Another recent initiative is a support team to which teachers or other members of the school can bring forward concerns they may have for a child. Whether behavioural, emotional or social, the team helps determine a path to success, says Aptowitzer. “This ensures no student falls through the cracks and allows us to provide support to families that need it.”

At Crescent School in North York, (G3 to 12 boys), guidance and well-being comprise four distinct areas, each with a unique approach, says Gina Kay, executive director of student services. Social workers help students with social and emotional well-being, both one-on-one and in small group session in the classroom; learning support specialists look to academics; nurses focus on physical health, which has been a critical component over the past two years; and university counsellors help direct postsecondary pathways for senior students.

“These different areas, while unique in their offerings, also work together to provide well-rounded support for our students. For example, if a student has worked with a guidance counsellor to select a specific program for postsecondary education yet one subject is particularly challenging, a learning support specialist will step in to assist,” explains Kay.

Again, COVID-19 has brought an increased need for student support services, particularly for Crescent’s two social workers – one in the upper school, the other in the lower. “We have an ongoing commitment to promoting health and well-being though our key principles of sleeping soundly; thinking clearly; eating smartly; and moving more. Since the pandemic, those principles have expanded to include social/ emotional learning, relationshipbuilding and, especially, having fun,” Kay says.

Kim English, director of university counselling at TFS, Canada’s International School in North York (JK – G12 bilingual co-ed), says the pandemic has amplified every aspect of the guidance counsellor’s role, which has been vital during times of virtual learning and virtual campus visits. “Youth and adults have both struggled during this time and, as trusted individuals, we have been responsive in providing support for a wide range of challenges,” English says. “COVID-19 has also highlighted the need to continually increase our knowledge about such things as legal changes, new technology, substance use and mental health, all of which have an impact on the school environment and students generally.”

A changing economy and the rapid development of new sectors has also brought uncertainty for some students and parents in terms of the optimum career direction, adds English. To address this, the school has implemented a monthly career spotlight featuring former students and parents working in diverse fields. Invited guests speak about their roles and the educational path they took to get there. This program does not only serve to illuminate different jobs, however. “The discussion of journeys that are often not a straight line helps to alleviate fears and provides reassurance for those who have yet to figure out their next steps,” she says.