We’re spotlighting an outstanding school counselor, Michael J. Here’s why he decided to become a counselor, the reasons he enjoys CCE and his advice for new counselors.

<div class="text"><h2>Celebrating Michael J., School Counselor</h2>
<p> At Cross Country Education, we’re honored to work with the best of the best from across the nation who are dedicated to improving kids' lives every day! We take great pride in their shared passion for helping students succeed, and we love passing along their insight to inspire others interested in this rewarding field. This time, we’re spotlighting one of our outstanding school counselors, Michael J.</p>
<p>Here’s why Michael decided to become a school counselor, what he enjoys most about working with the Cross Country Education team and schools, and what advice he has for school counselors just embarking on their careers.</p>
<h3>Why did you become a school counselor?</h3>
<p> Being a school counselor is very rewarding because it allows me to build strong relationships with students, parents and staff. I believe that I can make a difference in the lives of every student I work with. In addition to being able to build these relationships, I also enjoy being able to support my students in developing their academic and social emotional skills. I also enjoy assisting teachers and helping other educators meet the needs of their students. It is such a unique role, and I can't help but feel that it is very fulfilling</p>
<h3>What do you like about working with Cross Country Education?</h3>
<p>The Cross Country Education team is very supportive of their employees, and they provide a great work environment. They are also flexible and can accommodate their employees' schedules and provide assistance when needed. They are also very reliable and will answer any questions employees have whether it's about your job position or duties in the company, benefits, retirement, or anything else related to you and CCE.</p>
<h3>What have you liked about working at the schools with Cross Country Education?</h3>
<p> The schools that Cross Country Education assigned me this school year were great. Everyone from the principal to school staff were very friendly, supportive and super professional. They all did their best to accommodate me when it came to working with my students. The best part of my experience was that they did it with an attitude of grace and provided a welcoming atmosphere. I look forward to working with my assigned schools again for the 2022-2023 school year. Thanks CCE!</p>
<h3>What advice would you give someone starting in your field/profession?</h3>
<p> Being a school counselor can be very demanding, as it involves dealing with a large quantity of students at a time. However, the impact that counselors can have on the lives of their students is one of the most rewarding aspects of the job. Here are few traits that I think every school counselor should have:</p>
<ul style="list-style:none;">
  <li> <strong>1. Listening: </strong> One of the first things that comes to mind when it comes to being an effective school counselor is the ability to listen. It is very important to be able to effectively communicate with students and other faculty members. During their time working with students, parents and other faculty members, counselors spend a lot of time listening to and processing the information that they receive. If a counselor needs to clarify something, it’s important to speak up and provide details that will let the other person know what they said.</li>
<li> <strong> 2. Appreciating diversity:</strong> Being able to accept and embrace different backgrounds is a vital trait that a school counselor must have to be successful. Students come from a variety of backgrounds and families. Learning to accept and embrace diversity is very important for a school counselor.</li>
<li><strong>3. Being friendly and approachable:</strong> Being friendly and approachable to students, parents and faculty is a very important trait. Having the ability be open and transparent with students will allow them, at times, to trust you more than their parents, and getting them to open up and letting go of their frustrations can be a rewarding feeling for any school counselor. Often, students are overworked and set with heavy accomplishment lists, so having someone to listen to their troubles is a way to make students feel less stressed. </li>
<li><strong>4. Being authoritative:</strong> When a situation requires a decision, a school counselor must step outside the friendly boundaries and into a professional setting. They must also know when to act and when to spot any red flags. If abuse or neglect is present or a student is engaging in harmful or risky behavior, a counselor must take the necessary steps to ensure their students safety.</li>
</ul>
<h2> School Counselor Jobs </h2>
<p> If, like Michael, you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of students, and you’re ready to embark on a meaningful and rewarding adventure, explore our <a href="https://www.crosscountryeducation.com/job-search" target="_blank">school counselor jobs</a> today!</p></div>

Meet School Counselor, Michael J.!