PUB TYPE Opinion Papers (120)

Although it is vital to provide services to students, service providers in school districts usually work in isolation and may overlap or duplicate services. Educational institutions need to provide a wide range of student services, delivered in a comprehensive and coordinated system, led by student services coordinators (SSCs) who can serve as catalysts for effective delivery. Because of the unique and vital functions they perform, SSCs need specific leadership qualities, such as the following: abilities to articulate a vision, to listen to and understand others, to empower others through recognition and acceptance, and to take advantage of diversity. SSCs may function as designers; teachers, trainers, consultants, and coaches; and stewards. Activities that SSCs must carry out include the following: (1) find effective means of delivering services and managing student information; (2) administer integrated tracking systems for student records; (3) continuously monitor the program to evaluate and improve th