The Gysbers Missouri Comprehensive School Counseling Program Award is a state-level recognition in Missouri for K-12 schools whose counseling programs fully implement the state’s comprehensive school-counseling framework.
We have 3 campus settings who have worked to apply and have been awarded this prestigious recognition. Truman Learning Center, Lincoln Intermediate and High School have been recognized for the 2025 fall session. Our other campus settings have begun to set their sites on application processes this year. Our 3 current campus settings will be recognized by DESE at the upcoming December Board meeting.
To receive this award, a campus must demonstrate that the school’s counseling program is aligned to the Norman C. Gysbers-inspired Missouri model, including components such as counseling curriculum, individual student planning, responsive services, and system support.
The Missouri Gysbers Comprehensive School Counseling Program Award recognizes schools that have fully implemented a high-quality, data-driven counseling program aligned with state standards.
To earn this five-year recognition, schools must meet criteria set by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and score at least (90%) on the state evaluation. Applications are typically due September 1 each year.
Here’s what the process involves:
Schools begin by reviewing the award requirements and official DESE resources.
Gain Support: Building and district leaders, counselors and other key staff must work together to ensure full program implementation.
Comprehensive Counseling Program: Schools must have a written counseling plan (based on the Norman C. Gysbers/Missouri model) that includes:
Counseling Curriculum: Counseling lessons for all students.
Individual Student Planning: Helping each student set academic and career goals.
Responsive Services: Providing short-term counseling and connecting students with additional support when needed.
System Support: Maintaining program management, data use and a counseling advisory council.
Collect Data and Evidence: Schools show how their counseling program improves student outcomes such as grades, attendance, behavior and readiness for future learning or careers.
Advisory Council: A team of administrators, counselors, teachers, parents, and community partners helps guide and evaluate the program.
Set SMART Goals: Counseling teams create clear, measurable goals that support the overall school improvement plan.
Plan and Document: Schools prepare and organize all program documentation using templates provided by DESE.
This process ensures that each recognized school delivers a comprehensive, equitable, and effective counseling program that supports the success and well-being of all students.
Please take a moment to congratulate the award winning campus staff!
