What is a primary method for school counselors to identify at-risk students?

Monitoring attendance is a primary method for school counselors to identify at-risk students because consistent attendance is closely linked to academic performance and overall student wellbeing. When students have frequent absences, it may signal a range of issues, such as family problems, academic difficulties, or mental health concerns. School counselors can use attendance data to pinpoint students who may need additional support, allowing for early intervention strategies that can help improve their engagement and success in school.

While analyzing test scores, conducting surveys on school food, and organizing extracurricular activities can provide valuable insights into student needs and school climate, these approaches do not specifically target the immediate behavioral indicators of at-risk status like attendance does. Attendance records provide a clear and direct way to assess whether students are present and engaged, facilitating timely resources and interventions tailored to those who need the most help.