Evaluation is a critical component of a developmental guidance and counseling program that ensures accountability. The purpose of an evaluation is to determine the value of the program, its activities, and staff in order to make decisions or to take actions regarding the future. A program evaluation is the procedure used to determine the degree to which a school district’s comprehensive guidance and counseling program is in place and functioning fully. Nowadays, there is an increased demand for school counseling programs to demonstrate accountability and impact on student academic, personal/social, and career development therefore this evaluation can reveal the program’s effectiveness and efficacy. (Beesley, 2004; Dimmitt, 2009; Whiston & Aricak, 2008)
Based on the above premise, the student will complete an expository essay that explains the importance and purpose of an evaluation program and how this can influence and improve the counseling programs’ effectiveness and improvement of services.