OUR MISSION

  • At Hightower High School, we implement the Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs to deliver a comprehensive developmental guidance program, providing services in the following areas:


    Guidance Curriculum – helping students explore interests, and develop academic and career-ready competencies.
    Individual Planning – assisting students in planning, monitoring, and managing their educational, career, personal, and social development.
    Responsive Services – offering counseling and interventions to support students facing immediate academic, personal, or social barriers.
    System Support – collaborating with families, teachers, and community partners while organizing data-driven activities to strengthen the campus counseling program.


    This aligns precisely with Texas Education Code § 33.005, which mandates these four core components under the most recent Texas Model.

     

    📌Confidentiality Notice

    At Hightower High School, we uphold confidentiality to provide a safe and supportive environment. What students share in sessions remains private except in the following situations—which align with state law and Fort Bend ISD policy:

    🔐 When confidentiality may be delayed or broken:

    1. Risk of serious harm to self or others
      This includes suicidal thoughts or plans, self-injury, threats to harm someone, or behavior that endangers safety. Fort Bend ISD recognizes responsive services as part of its Comprehensive School Counseling Program.

    2. Suspected abuse or neglect of a minor
      Any report of physical, sexual, emotional abuse or neglect must be filed with Child Protective Services as required by Texas law.

    3. Student requests with permission
      If a student consents, counselors may share information with parents or staff when appropriate.

    4. Legal orders or subpoenas
      Counselors may be required to disclose records if ordered by a court.

    5. Duty to warn credible threats
      If a student reveals intent to harm, the counselor must notify the potential victim and/or law enforcement.


    ℹ️ What This Means for Students & Families

    • Confidential by default: Student–counselor conversations are private unless one of the above conditions applies.

    • Transparency: Counselors explain the limits of confidentiality upfront in age-appropriate terms.

    • Student involvement: When disclosure is necessary, counselors will inform the student beforehand (if safe) and engage them in how information is shared.

    • Professional guidance: Counselors consult with supervisors or legal advisors if uncertain.


    ✨ Why This Matters

    • It fosters trust, ensuring students feel safe speaking openly.

    • It aligns with Texas law and FBISD policy, particularly the district’s Comprehensive School Counseling Program standards.

    • It balances student privacy with responsible protection when risks or legal duties arise.