Rhode Island School Counseling Framework

The 2025 Rhode Island Framework for Comprehensive PreK-12 School Counseling Programs represents a collaborative effort to strengthen school counseling statewide, aligning with the ASCA National Model and decades of research. 

This updated framework positions school counselors as critical agents of systemic change, developing data-driven, preventative programs that close gaps and support all students' academic, social/emotional, and career development from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. 

The Framework outlines four key characteristics of effective schoolwide counseling programs: 

1. Comprehensive

   Build the mindsets and skills students need for academic, career and social/emotional success. 

2. Collaborative

   Engage administrators, teachers and mental health professionals with counselors to support all students. 

3. Preventive

   Work in an intentional, data-driven and proactive manner to deliver direct and indirect services to students — solving problems before they arise. 

4. Developmental

    Meet the needs of students at different stages of growth.

Reflecting diverse educational partners’ input, the framework underscores that effective school counseling is a collaborative, schoolwide effort, with school leaders playing a pivotal role in its implementation and success.

The Framework

The Rhode Island Department of Education extends its sincere gratitude to all of the individuals who contributed their time, expertise, and insights to the development of the updated Rhode Island School Counseling Framework. 

We especially want to recognize the dozens of school counselors, educators, administrators, and hundreds of students, families, and community partners who shared their experiences and perspectives. Your participation in interviews, focus groups, surveys, and school visits was invaluable. The input shared has been critical in shaping a framework that reflects the diverse needs of Rhode Island's students and schools.

Access the framework here.

Phased Implementation Guide

This phased implementation plan guides school counselors in creating a comprehensive counseling program utilizing the RI School Counseling Framework aligned with the ASCA national model. The length of time to complete each phase varies from school to school. Time frames may be influenced by a variety of factors including knowledge and understanding of the RI School Counseling Framework, priorities, persistence, and peer and district support. All templates and tools can be found on ASCA’s website. 

The ASCA National Model consists of four components: Define, Manage, Deliver, and Assess.

Videos and Presentations

Explore a collection of videos and downloadable presentations designed to support the implementation of Rhode Island’s school counseling frameworks. These resources provide valuable insights into best practices, strategies, and tools to enhance student success and well-being. Perfect for professional development or sharing with stakeholders, our materials aim to equip school counselors with actionable guidance to meet the diverse needs of their students.

RESOURCES:

• Let's Get Ready Community of Practice: RI Framework for Comprehensive PreK-12 School Counseling Programs Presentation
• "Let's Get Ready" Comprehensive School Counseling Program Needs Assessment (Use this link to make your own digital copy of the needs assessment.)

Join us for a variety of implementation supports for the updated RI School Counseling Framework.  See Below for a list of Professional Development opportunities.  

• Commissioners Counselors: ​In partnership with the College Board, RIDE is offering a paid Professional Development opportunity to Rhode Island high school counselors focused on providing the tools and resources to ensure every student graduates prepared for college and career.
• RI RAMP 30x’30 Support: Rhode Island RAMP 30x'30!
  We’re setting a bold goal—to support at least 30 Rhode Island schools to RAMP by 2030. Planning grants will be available to schools that are committed to achieving RAMP recognition!
• Training to support the implementation of the Framework: Enroll in the RI School Counseling Framework Cohort 5 for comprehensive professional development (register now!).​
• Customized District Support: Access personalized guidance and resources tailored to your school or district’s unique needs.
• Targeted Webinars: Engage in focused, skill-building webinars designed to enhance leadership and counseling expertise.​

Complete this Interest form to indicate all of the supports you are interested in.

If you are interested in support specifically for your school or district reach out to onna.holland@ride.ri.gov

Resources from the Field for the Field

Explore a collection of downloadable resources designed by school counselors for school counselors. These resources include valuable information that will help guide counselors in their work. [links to come]

• Lesson plans
• Sample templates

School Counseling Spotlights

RIDE's school counseling spotlight articles offer a unique glimpse into the incredible work being done by dedicated school counselors to support students' academic, social, and emotional well-being. These spotlights not only highlight the achievements of our counselors but also provide insights into how they address challenges, foster resilience, and guide students toward success. Whether you're a parent, educator, or community member, staying informed about the critical role of school counselors helps build a stronger, more supportive educational environment 

• ​​Comprehensive School Counseling: Equipping All Students for Success
• College and Career Supports: Expanding Horizons through Student Ambassadors and Postsecondary Planning
• ​​RhodyReady: Digital Tools Keep Students on Track for College and Career