In response to the growing need for meaningful collaboration among school counselors, Region 10 launched the Quarterly Counselor Connection, an initiative designed to bring counselors together in a structured, convenient setting.
Recognizing the challenge of geographic distance between many counselors and the service center, the program offers half-day sessions to reduce travel time while still providing valuable professional development. By organizing cohorts based on specific regions, the initiative fosters local connections and builds a lasting network of support that extends beyond the quarterly meetings.
Each meeting covers practical topics such as counseling program goals, needs assessments, time tracking and analysis, small-group development, social and emotional learning, educator wellness, and even the integration of artificial intelligence in counseling work. Participants also gain access to a variety of curated resources, including the Digital Connections Database and the Hot Topics Resource Bank.
However, for many participants, the most valuable aspect has been the people they have met.
“Being able to meet counselors in the surrounding areas that are working through the same things we are is a valuable learning opportunity,” said Hope Campbell, a participating counselor.
“Exploring how AI can support counseling, especially with pre- and post-assessments, has been huge for me.”
Brandy Clifton echoed the importance of shared experience. “It’s so normalizing to hear that I’m not alone and it’s okay to not have all the answers,” she said. “I’m a fairly new counselor, but there are experienced counselors who have the same struggles as me.”
Rodnesha Webb reflected on the impact of her first session. “It was new, but I met counselors from other school districts, and we were able to collaborate and exchange ideas to help support each other on our campuses,” she said. “I took a lot from it. It was tailored to the specific needs of counselors.”
The smaller group size and regional focus have allowed counselors to share openly, connect deeply, and return to their campuses with fresh insights and renewed energy.
As Region 10 prepares for another year of Counselor Connections, the mission remains the same: to empower school counselors through collaboration, accessibility, and ongoing professional growth. The ripple effect of these conversations extends far beyond the meeting room, ultimately benefiting the students and communities they serve.