Chapter 17: Working With Children Who Have Exceptionalities

Counselors, along with other school personnel, help to establish and maintain the educational climate for children each day in schools around the country by making vital, daily contributions. These individuals may assist school based teams of professionals and students in the decision making process. These actions may impact team meetings for students with exceptional needs or for students working through peer mediation and anti-bullying programs. Ensuring that children and youth have safe, caring, and respectful places to learn and socialize has been among the top concerns of the general public for over 40 years (Bushaw & Lopez, 2010). Safety and order is the foundation for a positive school climate that supports students’ academic achievement, and personal social development. Navigating school climates can be a strategically difficult challenge for traditionally developing student. The challenge for children with exceptionalities can be magnified. A positive, safe school climate provides optimal learning conditions. Counselors provide valuable leadership in school systems that allow children to participate in an environment that is positive and supportive.