Counselors work as team members with teachers, administrators and parents to help children progress toward graduation and post-secondary educational opportunities, creating the opportunity to achieve happy, productive and responsible citizenship. The counselor offers assistance and encouragement to students, families, and teachers as young people mature academically, socially, and physically. The counselor helps students to understand their abilities, to identify interests, and to set goals. DISD counselors work with students individually, in small groups, and in the classroom setting. Parents are welcome to make appointments to discuss their child’s progress and coordinate goal setting. In addition to counseling services, the guidance office operates as a referral center, a planning and coordinating center, and an information resource for students, parents, faculty, staff, and community.