In light of Ms. Faley’s article in the Dixini regarding one counselor servicing 800 students, I'm compelled to share my thoughts. I taught at Dixon High School for 26 years, the last 11 years as a school counselor. I'm outraged and saddened that this school year, the counseling staff was reduced from three to two counselors.

Today, school counselors wear a number of hats: test coordinators; schedulers; social, emotional and personal counselors; career advisers; and college counselors. In addition, DHS caseloads have included a significant percentage of special needs students.

The American School Counseling Association recommends a ratio of 250 students per one counselor; this translates to a minimum of three counselors at DHS.  Counselors at DHS have a caseload of 413 students each; during the 12 weeks Mrs. Ebert was on maternity leave, one counselor was assigned to 826 students.