Virginia School Counselor Association

03/15/2026

Nominations for VSCA Board of Directors

Greetings,

We are looking for three new Directors to join the VSCA Governing Board, for a three-year term beginning July 1, 2026.

Please note: in order to run for the board, candidates must (a) be VSCA members in good standing, (b) have at least three years professional experience as a K-12 school counselor, and (c) be school counselors, faculty in a school counselor education program, or a recently retired aforementioned position for no less than three years.

We need leaders who are willing to be involved, work hard, represent their colleagues, advocate for School Counseling in Virginia, and have fun!

If you are interested in running, please nominate yourself today, by completing the 2026 VSCA Board of Directors Elections form before 11:59pm on April 5th, 2026.

For more information, please email Sarah Ritchie, VSCA Assistant Chair: sritchie@kgcs.k12.va.us

Thank you for your consideration and dedication to school counseling!

All the best,

The VSCA Board of Directors

03/02/2026

Celebrating a counselor who goes above and beyond every single day. Your impact is huge, and your heart is even bigger! 💫 🎓

Give an example of a task, project, or situation where this counselor shined?
- Allison has been a cornerstone of the Virginia Partnership for School Mental Health (VPSMH) graduate student ECHOs. She provides expert monthly consultation and supervision services to graduate students in school counseling, social work, and psychology across the Commonwealth. In addition, she consistently supervises UVA practicum and internship students and provides each with exceptional support and mentorship. She is an extraordinary leader and role model.

What positive quality did they demonstrate? (e.g., teamwork, problem-solving, leadership, creativity)
- Allison exemplifies leadership, mentorship, commitment to the field, and expertise as a school counselor. She has quiet energy and a steady presence that make others feel seen, heard, and valued. Allison is kind and compassionate and has an organic ability to create safe and supportive spaces for the next generation of school counselors.

What was the impact of their action? (e.g., helped the team, saved the project, boosted morale)
- Allison’s work has elevated the quality of school mental health services across the state. Her care and commitment have strengthened the pipeline of exceptional school counselors entering the field. Additionally, every intern she supervises enters the field with confidence and competence. She consistently inspires excellence; I could not be more grateful for her partnership with the VPSMH and UVA.

02/24/2026

🚨🚨 DEADLINE EXTENDED UNTIL MIDNIGHT on 2/28!🚨🚨

Nominations for the 2026 VSCA Leadership Award and the 2026 VSCA School Counselor of the Year are now OPEN!

Follow the directions to submit your nominations!

02/23/2026

CTE Month is a powerful opportunity to raise awareness, celebrate achievements, and engage key partners across education and workforce communities. While February provides a concentrated time for outreach, the momentum built during this time should fuel year-round efforts. Strategic planning and coordination with your team and partners can ensure that CTE Month becomes a key part of a comprehensive, long-term advocacy strategy that maximizes the impact of Career Technical Education for educators, employers, policymakers, and most importantly, all learners!

02/12/2026

Kindness is powerful—and in school counseling, it’s transformational.

This Kindness Week, the Virginia School Counselor Association celebrates the everyday moments our counselors create safe spaces, amplify student voices, and lead with compassion across the Commonwealth.
A simple act of kindness can change a student’s entire day—and sometimes their entire future. ✨

How are you celebrating Kindness Week in your school community? Drop a comment below and share how you’re spreading kindness!

02/09/2026

February is Black History Month, a time to honor the profound contributions, resilience, and achievements of African Americans throughout history. Black History Month invites us to reflect on the rich stories that shape our nation and the enduring impact of Black leaders, thinkers, creators, and change-makers.

As school counselors, we are committed to fostering inclusive school environments where every student feels seen, valued, and supported. We recognize that celebrating Black history is not only about commemorating the past but also about affirming the dignity and promise of all students today. Our work — rooted in culturally responsive practices and advocating for equitable opportunities for every learner — aligns with the spirit of this important observance.

Together, let us celebrate the diversity that enriches our schools and embrace the lessons that Black history offers as we empower students to thrive!

02/06/2026

As we close out National School Counseling Week, we’re proud to recognize Lydia Larimore, Virginia School Counselor of the Year finalist. Lydia amplifies student success through intentional advocacy, student-centered support, and a commitment to meeting students where they are. Her dedication helps ensure every student has the tools, confidence, and opportunities needed to succeed—today and in the future!

02/05/2026

Our school counselors are champions at supporting the emotional wellness of all students. Let’s celebrate them during National School Counseling Week!

Go here to learn about school counseling in the commonwealth:
https://ow.ly/CA9e50Y8eMm

02/05/2026

In honor of National School Counseling Week, we’re spotlighting Sarah Ritchie, Assistant Chair of the VSCA Board!
Sarah is passionate about meeting students where they are in their academic journeys—recognizing their unique strengths, challenges, and goals—to help guide them toward future success. Through her leadership and advocacy, she amplifies student success by ensuring every student feels supported, seen, and empowered to take their next steps with confidence!

02/04/2026

Meet Starlette Anderson
VSCA Board Director | Elementary School Counseling Specialist
Starlette is telling us about her role and how she impacts student success by showing up, advocating, and creating spaces where counselors can thrive which directly amplifies student success!

02/04/2026

We’re so proud of our 2026 School Counselor of the Year finalist, Lydia Larimore! Follow along with her as she takes over the ASCA Instagram today!

2026 School Counselor of the Year Finalist Lydia Larimore takes over the ASCA Instagram for Day 3 of ! Follow along as she shares how she amplifies student success in Virginia.

02/03/2026

Celebrating a counselor who goes above and beyond every single day. Your impact is huge, and your heart is even bigger! 💫🎓
Give an example of a task, project, or situation where this counselor shined?
Tiffany is a GREAT counseling director. She assists whenever called upon and ALWAYS willing to help.

What positive quality did they demonstrate?
Team player, supportive, problem-solver

What was the impact of their action?
Tiffany’s selfless actions keep or counseling team and department running smoothly. Tiffany organizes activities for students, arranges meetings for the counselors, and is a great point of contact for parents when our counseling clerk is unavailable.