The Student Safety and Well-Being Advisory Committee Meeting held on August 20, 2025, in Calvert County, Maryland, focused on enhancing communication between school counselors and parents, particularly for middle and high school students.

The meeting began with discussions on the evolving methods of communication available to parents and counselors. One committee member highlighted the importance of virtual communication options, especially for families with university-aged children. They questioned whether counselors were utilizing these modern tools to engage with parents effectively.

The conversation shifted to the traditional parent-teacher conferences, which are more common in elementary schools. Committee members expressed a desire to see similar practices adapted for middle and high school settings. They explored the possibility of counselors organizing virtual meetings or conferences that could accommodate larger groups of parents, allowing for a more comprehensive discussion about student challenges.

It was noted that while some schools excel in facilitating these meetings, the approach can vary significantly across different buildings. Some counselors successfully set up conferences that involve multiple teachers, providing a broader perspective on student struggles. This collaborative approach helps identify underlying issues affecting students, as it allows educators to share insights and concerns collectively.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for improved communication strategies that leverage both in-person and virtual formats to better support student well-being. The committee plans to explore further initiatives aimed at fostering these connections between parents and school counselors in the future.