The personal development needs of preadolescents make extended guidance programs for middle school students crucially important. This article describes steps for teacher advisory program development--including a sample curriculum outline and learning activity--and summarizes the program role of the principal, counselor, and teacher. (DCS)

Today's school counselors are educated and trained in knowledge- and skill-based programs that emphasize counseling, guidance, consultation, coordination, and referrals. Counselors address three categories of student needs (social/personal, educational, and career) and tackle tough problems that interfere with the learning process.…