Learn about two of ASCA's national recognition programs – the ASCA-Recognized School Counselor Preparation Program and the ASCA-Certified School Counselor. College/university school counselor preparation programs may seek national recognition of their school counselor preparation program through the ASCA Specialized Professional Association (SPA) under the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). The ASCA School Counselor Preparation Program Standards are a unified set of principles guiding school counselor preparation programs in training effective future school counselors in areas of professional practice and ethical behavior. The ASCA-Certified School Counselor (ACSC) certification demonstrates school counselor knowledge in designing, implementing and assessing a school counseling program and is available to graduate students and new school counselors. School counselors who hold the ACSC demonstrate their commitment to the highest levels of professionalism, ethical practice and continuing professional development in their school counseling practice. Download handout here.

Learning objectives: After attending this session, you will be able to:

1. Summarize the background of the development of the ASCA-Recognized School Counselor Preparation Program and the ASCA-Certified School Counselor program.
2. Discuss the standards and components of each program.
3. Explain the application process for each program.

Speakers: Angie Hickman, Director of Research Media, ASCA; Jennifer Walsh, Director of Education & Training, ASCA