North Gwinnett News

Two Gwinnett County public schools have once again been recognized for their dedication to school counseling programs. Parkview High School and Ferguson Elementary School have been awarded the Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) designation.

The schools now hold RE-RAMP status, a designation given to institutions that maintain their RAMP status for five years. Schools are encouraged to continue this achievement by submitting a successful application at the end of their fourth year.

“The accomplishment reflects the continuous dedication and hard work of the counselors and administrators at both schools,” says Dr. Demetria Williams, Gwinnett County Public Schools’ Director of Counseling, College and Career Services. “The RAMP process represents the successful application of the ASCA National Model framework, demonstrating effective student services, program planning, and enhanced student outcomes in the school counseling program. It validates that a school counseling program adheres to high standards showcasing a commitment to excellence in counseling practices.”

The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) awards this designation to schools committed to delivering comprehensive data-driven school counseling programs. This year, 138 schools in 25 states received the Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) designation. These schools will be honored during a special ceremony at the American School Counselor Association’s Annual Conference for making an exemplary commitment to their school counseling programs.

There are ten components of the application, covering an entire school year of data collection. Each application is judged by a three-person review team overseen by a lead RAMP reviewer. Schools earning scores of 54 or higher out of a possible 60 are awarded RAMP status. Schools with scores of 58 or higher after initial review are designated as a RAMP School of Distinction.

For more information on the program, visit www.schoolcounselor.org/ramp