Why Offer Courses for School Counselors?

One of MCAN's strategic priorities is to provide professional development opportunities to those who work directly with students and families in the college-going process—especially school counselors. We believe school counselors are poised to lead the charge in ensuring students are socially, academically, logistically, and financially prepared for postsecondary education. Counselors are uniquely positioned to change the postsecondary trajectories for all students. However, in order for school counselors to effectively lead the college access movement in their buildings, they must have access to high-quality training in college advising and postsecondary planning. To support this priority, MCAN has provided dedicated professional development designed for school counselors since 2013.

Professional Development Paths

To respond to a changing school landscape, MCAN has updated our professional development offerings to provide training on more topics and in new formats to better fit the needs of Michigan’s school counselors. Building on the success of our established Foundations of Equity in College Advising course, we offer two courses facilitated by Dr. Laura Owen from the Center for Equity and Postsecondary Attainment at San Diego State University. Equity-Focused Career Development and Postsecondary Transitions, and Contemporary and Social Issues in School Counseling are designed for those who are able to commit to a semester-long, graduate-level course and want to take a deep dive into equity-based counseling work.

MCAN will also continue offering College and Career Advising mini-courses, facilitated by Michigan school counselors. In this format, registrants can choose the type of professional development that works best for them and their schedules. These mini-courses are a great option for school counselors who are looking for deeper engagement than a one-hour webinar provides and are able to make a five-week commitment.

Registration and Course Cost

These courses are open to all school counselors, college and career advisers, and educators. Seats will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis with priority seating given to school counselors. AmeriCorps members who are currently serving are not eligible to register for these courses. A limited number of seats are available; priority consideration will be granted to school counselors. Remaining seats will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Registrants who secure a seat will be awarded a $250 scholarship to access the course at no cost.