For over 30 years international school leaders, teachers, and counselors have come together for PTC professional learning experiences. Each day of every program begins with a “pearl of wisdom,” a “'nugget of knowledge,” or a “gem of inspiration” from one of the participants. We are delighted to offer our readers around the world these powerful stories, insights, and strategies, all dedicated to our shared mission of ever more and better learning for our children.
In this Pearl, Dan discusses the power of voice and advocates for the role of the school counselor. He says, “one person’s voice can be the catalyst to making effective change.” Many people don’t have a true understanding of the role of the school counselor. Advocacy goes hand in hand with educating. Dan shares a few tips for counselor advocacy: be informed, be prepared to inform others, get the right people “on the bus,” continue working towards your goal, advocate at every opportunity, continue professional development, collect data, nurture your voice, collaborate, and have a voice in defining the role. Then, witness your words have a lasting impact and effect.
Professional positions cited were the ones held at the time of recording. The positions and schools of those quoted may have since changed.
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Dan Chaney is an elementary school counselor at the International School of Beijing, China.
