School counseling programs are a major component of the West Shore School District's commitment in meeting student needs and supporting the instructional process. School counseling services are available to all students as a part of their general educational experience and tailored, whenever possible and appropriate, for students with special needs or who are considered exceptional. The West Shore School District Counseling Plan is aligned with the standards established by the American School Counselor Association. The standards clearly identify the services as follows:

• Individual counseling in a confidential setting.
• Group counseling for students with common needs.
• Referral to appropriate community agencies.
• Orientation to critical change points during a student's school career.
• An organized system of communication with the home.
• A coordinated and accurate system of pupil records according to the state and District policy.
• Assistance in selecting the courses and career direction most appropriate to the student's future.
• A standardized testing program for the determination of individual strengths and weaknesses.
• Collection of information that may be useful to the preparation and evaluation of District programs.
• Up-to-date information resources on careers, education, financial aid, and outside services for all students, including special needs students.