What should school counselors do when confronted with unethical policies?

When confronted with unethical policies, school counselors are guided by the ASCA Ethical Standards to work responsibly through the appropriate channels to seek change. This approach underscores the importance of advocacy in the profession. Counselors have an ethical obligation to ensure that their practices uphold the best interests of students and promote a safe and supportive school environment.

This means that when faced with policies that may hinder student well-being or equity, counselors should actively engage in efforts to address these issues. This can involve discussing concerns with school administration, forming committees, or collaborating with other educators and stakeholders to promote more ethical practices. This proactive stance not only supports students but also helps foster a culture of accountability and improvement within the school system.

By pursuing change through proper channels, counselors align their actions with their ethical standards, which emphasize service to students and the promotion of just policies. This method enhances the counselor's role as an advocate and strengthens the effectiveness of their efforts in creating a more equitable educational environment.