Counseling
Vision
The Palos Verdes High School Counseling Department prepares all students to be self-sufficient, driven, and resilient. Through access to a high quality education in alignment with the ASCA National Model, we guide graduates to lead with integrity and confidence as they navigate new and meaningful experiences in college, career, and life.
Mission
The PVHS Counseling Department is committed to supporting all students to reach their maximum potential and well-being. Through a comprehensive and data-informed school counseling program, all students gain access to the knowledge, skills, and awareness necessary for future success. We believe in embracing student individuality, promoting self-growth, and ensuring post-secondary plans align with personal goals.
Counseling Program
The Palos Verdes High School Counseling Department is dedicated to supporting each student’s growth, ensuring a positive and well-rounded high school experience. Guided by the National Standards of the American School Counseling Association, counselors focus on students’ academic success, college and career readiness, and their overall well-being.
Students are assigned a counselor by last name and stay with that counselor throughout their high school years, building strong, personalized relationships and consistent support.
PVHS promotes a college-going culture starting in freshman year, offering comprehensive post-secondary planning. Counselors guide students through various pathways, including community colleges, four-year universities, military service, and other opportunities, helping students achieve their individual goals.
Professional Development
Counselors engage in ongoing professional development annually. These include but are not limited to:
- Attend the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) Conference providing current and best practices for the counseling profession
- Attend the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) Counselor Conferences for updates to university campus, application, and admissions information
- Attend the National Association of College Admissions Counselors (NACAC) Conference for updates about college counseling and admissions on a national landscape
- Participation in the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) ASCA Academy Two-Year Program utilizing the ASCA National Model of a comprehensive school counseling model. PVHS goal: Apply for RAMP: Recognized ASCA Model Program