District Guidance and Counseling Services
School Guidance and Counseling Services
Mission Statement
The mission of the Russell County School District’s Comprehensive School Guidance and Counseling Program is to prepare every student with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to navigate present and future challenges and achieve success in school, careers, and life.
Our comprehensive counseling program supports the academic, career, and social-emotional development of all students. Through individualized support, guidance, and collaboration with families, educators, and community partners, we strive to empower students to make informed decisions, develop positive relationships, build resilience, and become confident, responsible, and productive members of a changing society.
Prevention & Support Services
Russell County School District’s counseling services fall under the direction of the Department of Prevention and Support Services, which works collaboratively with schools, students, and families to provide resources and support that promote student success and well-being.
To contact the Prevention & Support Services Office, please call:
(334) 408-4986
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Our school counselors are responsible for the systematic delivery and evaluation of structured developmental counseling and guidance services to all students. Counselors work with students individually and in small groups to deal with unique or problem-centered concerns.
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- Ensures every student has access to the school counseling program and guidance program
- Promotes the most challenging and appropriate academic curriculum for each student
- Advocates for students and promotes equitable access to educational opportunities
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- Supports active partnerships for student learning and career planning
- Invites and coordinates access to school and community resources
- Provides training and informational workshops
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- Provides a workforce with a stronger academic foundation
- Promotes equity and access to the workforce
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- Decision-making
- Goal setting
- Peer relationships
- Self-awareness
- Career awareness
- World of work
- Labor market information
- Educational and career planning
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In an effort to minimize antisocial behaviors in the school environment, the RCBOE has created a process whereby a student, parent, guardian, or bystander may report instances of bullying to the school administrator for further review and investigation. Upon completion of this reporting form, please submit the form to an administrator, counselor, or teacher. All reported incidents of bullying may be investigated, and when necessary, school administrators apply appropriate disciplinary consequences.
Please use the following link if you need to report a possible instance of bullying. The counselor and administration from the school you pick will receive the information you submit.
Russell County Board of Education Policy: 6.18 Bullying, Intimidation, Violence, and Threats of Violence
6.18.1 Prohibition - No student shall engage in nor should be subjected to bullying, violence, threats of violence, or intimidation by any other student that is based on any of the specific characteristics set forth in this policy. Students who violate this policy may be subject to appropriate disciplinary sanctions as specified in the Student Code of Conduct, subject to the investigating school administrator's authority and decision.
Please use the link below if you need to report a possible instance of bullying. The counselor and administration from the school you pick will receive the information you submit. Parents who are looking for help with various issues surrounding the wellness and mental health of their students can find a number of great resources by clicking the Mental Health Resources and going to the "On-Demand Courses" at the top of the webpage.
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Youth Mental Health First Aid
Russell County Schools has counselors at both the elementary and secondary levels who have received training in Youth Mental Health First Aid. This training equips school counselors with the knowledge and skills to recognize signs of mental health and substance use challenges and respond appropriately when a young person may be experiencing a crisis.
Youth Mental Health First Aid focuses on supporting adolescents ages 12–18 who may be experiencing a mental health or substance use concern. The training includes an overview of common mental health challenges among youth, typical adolescent development, and a five-step action plan for responding to young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations.
Topics addressed through the training include:
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Anxiety and depression
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Substance use and related challenges
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Conditions in which psychosis may occur
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Disruptive behavior disorders, including ADHD
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Eating disorders
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Other mental health concerns that may affect adolescents
Through Youth Mental Health First Aid training, Russell County Schools’ counselors are better prepared to recognize warning signs, provide appropriate initial support, connect students and families with resources, and help create a safe and supportive school environment.
Our counselors are committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of students while working collaboratively with families, school staff, and appropriate community resources.
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Child Advocacy Center Partnership
Russell County Schools partners with the Child Advocacy Center to support the safety, well-being, and recovery of children and families affected by abuse.
Through a multidisciplinary approach, the Child Advocacy Center provides services designed to support children and youth who have experienced abuse, as well as their families, while helping them navigate the recovery process. These efforts also focus on prevention and breaking the cycle of abuse.
As part of this partnership, Child Advocacy Center representatives visit classrooms throughout the district to provide age-appropriate education and prevention information. Students learn how to recognize and report suspected child abuse or neglect, identify trusted adults and available resources, and make safe and responsible choices when using social media and other digital platforms.
Through education, prevention, and collaboration, Russell County Schools and the Child Advocacy Center work together to promote student safety, empower children to speak up, and connect students and families with the support they need.
Do you need to find mental health resources for your student? Send a message to
our Mental Health Service Coordinator!
