The NHSCA Rising Star School Counselor Award recognizes an early-career school counselor (within their first three years in the profession) who demonstrates exceptional promise, leadership, and impact in their school community. This award celebrates counselors who are already making meaningful contributions to student success through innovative programming, strong relationship-building, and a commitment to the school counseling profession.

Recipients of this award embody the core values of school counseling, including advocacy, equity, collaboration, and data-informed practice. They show initiative beyond expected duties and demonstrate the potential to become future leaders in the field.

Eligibility Criteria

• Currently practicing school counselor in the state of New Hampshire

• Member of NHSCA

• Within first 3 years of professional experience

• Demonstrates alignment with school counseling standards 

• Nominated by an administrator, director of school counseling, or other professional staff

Timeline:

• Nominations submitted by December 1

• Candidate will receive notification of nomination by December 5  

• If the candidate would like to move forward with the nomination, they will provide a letter of recommendation and evidence artifacts (lesson plans, data reports, student impact examples) 

• Winner will be notified by February 1