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A school counseling program is an articulated, sequential, kindergarten-through-grade 12 program that is comprehensive in scope, preventative in design, developmental in nature, driven by data, and integral to the school district’s curricula and instructional program. The program must be implemented by a qualified professional school counselor who is appropriately licensed.
Back to topIowa School Counseling Framework
The Iowa School Counseling Framework (4.86 MB) .pdf provides a model to guide and assist Iowa’s school counselors in the implementation of a comprehensive school counseling program. Note: The Department will begin its five-phase established review and revision process for the Iowa School Counseling Framework in the 2025-26 school year, per its regular review and revision process.
Back to topSchool Counseling Endorsements & Programs
The following institutions provide training and licensing in Iowa for school counselors:
- Buena Vista University
- Drake University
- Loras College
- Northwestern College
- University of Iowa
- University of Northern Iowa
- Upper Iowa University
Additional licensure information from the Iowa School Counselor Association.
Back to topK-12 Articulated, Sequential School Counseling Programs
School counselors design and deliver school counseling programs that improve student outcomes.
Iowa Professional School Counselor Administrative Rules (190.41 KB) .pdf
Iowa's Chapter 12 Interpretation Matrix (875.63 KB) .pdf - Includes standards for school counseling programs
Back to topSchool Counselor as a Professional
School counselors are appropriately licensed/certified educators who design and deliver comprehensive school counseling programs that improve student outcomes.
Back to topResources for Implementing a Comprehensive Program
Iowa's Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)
Association for Career and Technical Education: Counseling and Career Development Division
Iowa’s College and Career Readiness Definition
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