How does a high school counselor's role vary across different states?

I've heard that high school counselor roles might differ depending on the state. Could someone explain if there are specific duties or qualifications for counselors in states like California, Michigan, or Texas? I'm curious about how these differences might impact the job.

The precise duties and qualifications of high school counselors can indeed vary by state, and sometimes even at the district level. While all states generally require counselors to have a Master's degree in school counseling or a related field, there can be differences in certification requirements and roles in the educational process.

In California, for instance, the Commission on Teacher Credentialing offers a Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential, which is required for school counseling. This certification places a strong emphasis on equitable learning and cultural competency. Counselors in California often work directly with students and families on academic planning, career exploration, and social and emotional health, and they may also play an active role in developing a school's curriculum to be more inclusive of a diverse student body.

In Michigan, to work as a school counselor, it's necessary to have a school counselor license issued by the Michigan Department of Education. Michigan school counselors tend to focus on academic development, career and college readiness, and personal and social development. In recent years, Michigan schools have tended to increase their focus on college and career readiness, so counselors can often be found coordinating college and career prep activities.

Texas also requires a school counselor certificate for individuals serving in that role. The requirements include a completed master’s degree, teaching experience, and an approved educator preparation program. School counselors in Texas often focus on a comprehensive school counseling program that deals with the academic, career, personal, and social development of all students. Texas counselors may have significant roles in crisis intervention and prevention as well. Texas also emphasizes the need for its counselors to adhere to ethical and legal standards in school counseling.

Depending on the state, some school counselors also have roles in coordinating standardized testing, helping with college applications, and arranging financial aid workshops. Keep in mind the student-to-counselor ratio might impact a counselor’s ability to perform these roles effectively, and this ratio can widely differ across states.

So, you're correct; the role of a high school counselor can be very different depending on the state and the individual school's needs.