Adapting American School Counselor Association National Model to Advise and Counsel Adult Students

The Program of Practice

Evans Community Adult School (CAS) is adapting the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model to better serve our adult students and meet their diverse needs comprehensively. Despite its initial design for K-12 students, the ASCA National Model’s principles are highly adaptable to adult learners, who also benefit from data-informed decision-making and developmentally appropriate curricula. Currently, Division of Adult and Career Education (DACE) has a limited number of credentialed school counselors, making collaboration with advisors essential. Traditional focus has been on academic advising with limited social-emotional support. This highlights a need for a more holistic approach.

The Response

To address this problem, Evans CAS is developing a comprehensive counseling program based on the ASCA National Model. This program utilizes data to inform decisions and ensure that counseling services are delivered systematically to all students. Counselors and advisors implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum focusing on the mindsets and behaviors necessary for postsecondary readiness and success. By aiming to close achievement and opportunity gaps, Evans CAS strives to improve student achievement, attendance, and discipline. The incorporation of the Multi-Tier System of Support (MTSS) transforms counseling services from a reactive to a proactive approach. This initiative ensures that the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs of all students are met. Adhering to ASCA standards, including the Mindsets & Behaviors for Student Success and the Ethical Standards for School Counselors, defines the roles and responsibilities of the counseling team. Integrating these standards with Los Angeles Unified School District and DACE professional guidelines creates a comprehensive support system for adult learners.

The Unique Features of the Program

The program uniquely adapts the ASCA National Model to an adult learning environment, ensuring its relevance for non-traditional students. It employs a data-informed, systematic delivery of counseling services, enhancing consistency and effectiveness. The integration of a Multi-Tier System of Support (MTSS) ensures a proactive approach to address all aspects of student success. By combining the expertise of credentialed counselors and advisors, the program offers a robust support network that caters to the diverse needs of adult learners.

The Outcome

Evans CAS successfully increased completion rates. As of April 2024, the completion rate for the ESL Program stands at 48.2%. The Academic Program has achieved a completion rate of 35.0%, while the CTE Program also has a completion rate of 48.2%. These improved outcomes demonstrate the positive impact of this adapted counseling program on student success and completion rates.

Qualitative feedback indicates academic support systems are well-established, providing consistent academic advising and individualized student plans for the majority of students; and social-emotional support is robust, with established wellness check-ins, responsive counseling, and clear protocols for referrals to additional services. College and career support includes established systems for career planning and scholarship promotion, ensuring students have the resources to pursue their postsecondary goals.