President’s Letter: The Jurassic Journey: Leading as a School Counselor in a Changing World

Cue the music. You know the one — epic, orchestral, and a little ominous. Yep, there's a new “Jurassic” movie on the horizon, and if you ask me, it's the perfect metaphor for what it's like being a school counselor right now.
 
In the latest installment, dinosaurs once again roam free. Some are majestic, others unpredictable, and a few downright terrifying. Sounds a bit like balancing district-wide needs, leading advisory councils, supporting students, and navigating change, doesn't it?
 
As your new KSCA president, I’m stepping into this role not with a flare gun (though that could be useful) but with a deep commitment to advocacy, collaboration, and building a future-focused vision for Kansas school counseling. Much like the “Jurassic” heroes, we’re constantly adapting to new environments — some filled with opportunity, others with resistance to change.
 

Raptor-Wrangling Leadership

Leadership today feels like wrangling a pack of clever raptors — timing, trust, and teamwork are everything. Whether as a building-level leader or part of a district team, our influence matters. We guide conversations on mental health, academic supports, and equitable access — sometimes in spaces not built for us. But we show up. And we lead anyway.
 

District-Wide Support: Herding Herds of Triceratops

Supporting multiple buildings or systems can feel massive. But like the long-necked Brachiosaurus, our reach is powerful. Advocating across departments and schools requires a long view — and a thick skin. Our challenge is to create consistency while honoring the uniqueness of each school environment.
 

Advisory Councils: Your Pack of Allies

Just like every dino needed a herd (even the T-rex knew when to team up), we need advisory councils. Whether formal or informal, these groups amplify our voices and help align our work with district and student needs. If you're not using an advisory council yet, consider this your invitation to start one — they’re your pack.
 

Resistance to Change: The Real Velociraptors

Ah yes, resistance — the creatures lurking behind the tall grass. Whether it’s skepticism around MTSS roles, unclear expectations, or those who still see us as schedule-changers instead of change-makers, we face it. But here's the truth: school counselors are evolving. And we’re not going extinct.
 

A Message from the Jeep

This year, I challenge you to channel your inner paleontologist — dig deep, discover new approaches, and dust off outdated thinking. Innovation and navigation are the name of the game (just like last year’s ASCA theme). You are not alone on this island. KSCA is your Jeep, your safety flare, your “clever girl” moment when you need it most.
 
Together, let’s navigate and innovate. Let’s roar a little louder. And let’s keep building a future where every Kansas student thrives.
 
Contact Laura Douglas, KSCA president, at laura@kansasschoolcounselor.org.