National School Counseling Week 2026 as established by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) has the theme of “School Counselors Amplify Student Success.” This week will focus public attention on the unique contribution of school counselors within U.S. school systems and how students are different as a result of what school counselors do. National School Counseling Week highlights the tremendous impact school counselors can have in helping students achieve school success and plan for a career.
Out of the nine statewide AEAs, Grant Wood AEA is fortunate to be one of three AEAs with a dedicated School Counselor Consultant: Aimee Hospodarsky. In her role, she supports Grant Wood AEA school counselors by providing practical, relevant professional learning, coaching, and consultation that strengthens school counseling programs and improves student outcomes. Her work focuses on building strong, data-informed systems, supporting counselors at all stages of their careers, and helping districts implement high-quality, comprehensive school counseling programs aligned with the ASCA National Model. Through networking opportunities, coaching, and ongoing communication, she aims to build collaborative relationships and ensure counselors feel supported, connected, and equipped to do their best work. Through her work, she has made a meaningful difference in strengthening and shining a light on the work of school counselors across our agency.
“School counselors work with all students to remove barriers to learning by addressing students’ academic concerns, career options and social/emotional skills,” said Jill Cook, ASCA executive director. “School counseling programs help to increase student achievement and provide a much-needed resource for students, parents, teachers and administrators. School counselors are integral to student success.”
More than 100,000 school counselors nationwide will be participating in the week’s festivities. Many schools will be hosting special events and activities to call attention to the countless benefits of a comprehensive school counseling program.
How to Celebrate
As part of its celebration for National School Counseling Week, Grant Wood AEA would like to recognize and thank all the school counselors across the agency for their dedication and continuous work that is “helping students thrive.”
The American School Counselor Association has created this toolkit to help promote this important week!
Anyone with specific questions or concerns about school counseling programs should contact the school counselors at their local schools. More general information can also be found on ASCA’s website, www.schoolcounselor.org.