Graduates of the MS Education, School Counseling will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the following:

• PLO 1: Professional Identity & Ethical Practice- Graduates will demonstrate a strong school counselor professional identity and apply ethical, legal, and developmental standards to decision-making in educational settings. Aligned DESE Standards: A, B, D, H
• PLO 2: Culturally Responsive & Inclusive Counseling- Graduates will apply culturally sustaining, anti-bias, and developmentally appropriate practices that support equitable outcomes for all students and families.Aligned DESE Standards: A, E, F, G, I
• PLO 3: Individual & Group Counseling Skills- Graduates will deliver evidence-based individual and group counseling interventions that promote students’ academic, social/emotional, and career development.Aligned DESE Standards: C, D, F, H
• PLO 4: Data-Informed Assessment & Decision-Making- Graduates will interpret schoolwide data, utilize behavioral observations, and apply assessment tools to identify student needs, measure outcomes, and guide program planning. Aligned DESE Standards: A, C, I, J
• PLO 5: Collaboration & Consultation- Graduates will collaborate effectively with teachers, administrators, families, and community partners to enhance student well-being and improve systemic supports. Aligned DESE Standards: A, E, F, H, J
• PLO 6: Comprehensive School Counseling Program Development- Graduates will design, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive, developmentally appropriate school counseling program aligned with national, state, and district standards. Aligned DESE Standards: A, C, I, J
• PLO 7: College, Career & Life Readiness- Graduates will apply career development theories, planning strategies, and transition supports to strengthen student readiness for postsecondary pathways. Aligned DESE Standards: C, F, G
• PLO 8: Crisis Management, Trauma Response & Student Safety- Graduates will identify student risk factors and implement trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate crisis responses—including suicide prevention, safety assessment, and emergency protocols. Aligned DESE Standards: D, H, I
• PLO 9: Special Education Knowledge & Advocacy- Graduates will collaborate with special education teams, understand disability classifications and referral processes, and advocate for equitable access to services for all learners. Aligned DESE Standards: E, F, G, I
• PLO 10: Leadership, Advocacy & Systemic Change- Graduates will apply leadership skills to address achievement and opportunity gaps, advocate for equitable school policies, and promote positive, inclusive school climates. Aligned DESE Standards: A, B, E, I, J