RAPID CITY, SD – School counselors in Rapid City play a critical role in supporting students, often stepping in during moments of crisis while also working behind the scenes to build relationships and prevent problems before they start.

Elizabeth Russ, counselor at Central High School and secondary lead counselor for Rapid City Area Schools, said student safety is always the top priority when challenges arise.

“It’s always about safety first,” Russ said. “If there is something that has to do with a student being safe, that is always priority number one.”

Russ and Brittany Henry-James, an elementary counselor at Wilson Elementary and elementary lead counselor for the district, said their days can range from simple check ins with students to serious situations involving grief, homelessness, or mental health concerns.

“It can be a fist bump in the hallway or sitting down with a student who is experiencing something really difficult,” Henry-James said. “That can happen at any moment in the day.”

Both counselors said building relationships throughout the school community helps them respond more effectively when students need support. Teachers, staff members, and even cafeteria workers often play a role in identifying when a student may be struggling.

“Schools are communities,” Henry-James said. “Staff know their students well and will often reach out if they notice something isn’t right.”

Counselors also focus on prevention. Elementary students receive monthly classroom guidance lessons focused on social emotional skills, while middle and high school students participate in counseling programs and activities designed to support well-being.

Another important part of the job is helping families connect with outside resources when a situation requires more specialized care.

“We’re solution focused,” Henry-James said. “If something goes beyond what we can provide in a school setting, we work to connect families with community resources that can help.”

Russ said many people misunderstand the role of school counselors.

“We don’t have a magic wand to fix things,” Russ said. “What we can do is help students develop skills so they can be more successful at school and in life.”

Both counselors said the work can be challenging but also deeply rewarding, especially when students feel safe enough to open up.

“Sometimes the most important thing is simply giving a student a place where they feel heard and supported,” Russ said.