Rankin County School District's 45 school counselors are certified/licensed professionals with a masters' degree or higher in school counseling and are uniquely qualified with skills to address all students' academic, personal/social and career development needs.  Currently, 23 RCSD school counselors are National Board Certified. 

Through a comprehensive developmental school counseling program, counselors work as a team with the school staff, parents and the community to create a caring climate and atmosphere.  By providing education, prevention, early identification and intervention, school counselors can help all students achieve academic success.

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RCSD Drug/Crisis Counselor - Martha Hollingsworth

District Counselors - Patti Harmon , Charlotte Christian

(601) 825-5590

The elementary years are a time when students begin to develop their academic self-concept and their feelings of competence and confidence as learners.  They are beginning to develop decision-making, communication and life skills, as well as character values.  It is also a time when students develop and acquire attitudes toward school, self, peers, social groups, and family. 

Elementary Counselors

Middle school is an exciting, yet challenging time for students, their parents and teachers.  During this passage from childhood to adolescence, middle school students are characterized by a need to explore a variety of interests, connecting their learning in the classroom to its levels of activity coupled with frequent fatigue due to rapid growth; a search for their own unique identity as they begin turning more frequently to peers rather than parents for ideas and affirmation; extreme sensitivity to comments from others; and heavy reliance on friends to provide comfort, understanding and approval. 

Middle School Counselors

High school is the final transition into adulthood and the world of work as students begin separating from parents and exploring and defining their independence.  Students are deciding who they are, what they do well, and what they will do when they graduate.  During these adolescent  years, students are evaluating their strengths, skills, and abilities.  Peer group influence is of primary importance.  They are searching for a place to belong and rely on peer acceptance and feedback.  They face increased pressures regarding risky behaviors involving sex, alcohol, and drugs while exploring the boundaries of more acceptable behavior and mature, meaningful relationships.  They need guidance in making concrete and compounded decisions.  They must deal with academic pressures as they face high-stakes testing, the challenges of college admissions, the scholarship and financial aid application process and entrance into a competitive job market. 

High School Counselors