Supporting Marginalized Populations for Counselors

This workshop equips K–12 school counselors with the tools, frameworks, and strategies needed to identify and effectively support marginalized students. Participants examine how systemic inequities, implicit bias, and structural barriers affect access, enrollment, and academic success. The session explores counselors’ responsibilities through a tiered approach, focusing on mental health, equitable placement, and culturally responsive counseling. Counselors will leave with strategies to promote hope, belonging, and engagement for all students, ensuring that marginalized learners are seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.

• Inequitable access and enrollment in advanced courses and programs for marginalized students, particularly students of color, English language learners, and those with disabilities.
  
  
• Unmet mental health needs that hinder students’ academic and emotional development and threaten school safety.
  
  
• Implicit bias and systemic discrimination that affect counseling practices, placement, and opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.
  
  
• Limited family engagement and collaboration, especially among communities facing language, cultural, or socioeconomic barriers.
  

1. Apply Trauma-Informed and Equity-Based Counseling Practices
   Counselors will learn how to identify and address trauma and inequities that impact marginalized students’ mental health and self-efficacy. They will explore trauma-informed approaches and nondiscriminatory practices that align with federal protections (Titles VI, IX, and Section 504) to create inclusive and supportive school environments.
   
   
2. Promote Equitable Access and Placement Opportunities
   Participants will develop strategies for evaluating placement and enrollment systems to ensure fair access to academic and extracurricular programs. Counselors will analyze barriers such as bias in advanced course recommendations and learn how to advocate for structures that promote equal opportunity across all grade levels.
   
   
3. Foster Connection, Belonging, and Family Engagement
   Attendees will gain techniques to build students’ academic mindsets, celebrate diverse achievements, and increase school involvement among marginalized groups. They will also learn how to collaborate with families using flexible communication and culturally responsive engagement practices to create a strong network of support.