Warning Signs of Threats to Student Safety: Recommendations for Virtual School Counseling

Abstract

School safety has become central to the educational goals and missions of schools on almost every continent ( Astor & Benbenishty, 2018 ). Equally important is supporting the social, emotional, and mental health needs of all students. School counselors have specific training to help students navigate the challenges of distance learning and identify those who are struggling to cope, but many have faced a new challenge with the COVID-19 pandemic: counseling students virtually. This article aims to optimize school safety and student success by enhancing school counselors’ ability to identify students who are struggling to cope in distance learning environments.