Every day, guidance counsellors walk into their schools prepared to meet students where they are. Some students come seeking academic advice, others need help navigating post-secondary options, career pathways, scholarships, or personal challenges. Many simply need someone who will listen without judgment and offer encouragement when life feels overwhelming.
The work of a guidance counsellor requires a unique combination of expertise, compassion, patience, and resilience. They are mentors, advocates, problem-solvers, and trusted confidants. They help students navigate some of the most important, and challenging years of their lives, often serving as a steady source of support during times of uncertainty and change.
What makes their contribution especially remarkable is that no two days are ever the same. One conversation may focus on university applications, another on mental health supports, family challenges, career exploration, or helping a student regain confidence after a setback. Through it all, guidance counsellors remain committed to ensuring that every student feels seen, heard, valued, and supported.
Much of their work happens quietly, behind the scenes, and often without recognition. Yet the impact they have can last a lifetime. Many of us can still recall a teacher, mentor, or counsellor whose guidance helped shape our future. For countless students, that person is their guidance counsellor.
Canadian School Counsellor magazine will award the title “Counsellor of the Year”, to one individual for their endless effort, commitment and the contributions that they make while continuing to improve the lives of their students. This individual will be nominated by their peers.
We recognize not only the responsibilities they carry, but the dedication and heart they bring to their work every single day. Their commitment helps students discover their strengths, overcome obstacles, and believe in their potential.
We would like to honour one counsellor for his [in the words of his colleague Livia Gloux Fisette] “unwavering dedication to student success for over 20 years.”
In June 2026, it was indeed our pleasure to announce – Larry Au, Technical Vocational High School in Winnipeg, MB as CSC’s Counsellor of the Year.
“Larry, thank you for your patience, your compassion, your wisdom, and your unwavering commitment to the success and well-being of the students you serve. The difference you make is profound, and the lives you touch are better because of your efforts.”
– Donna Billey, Publisher, Canadian School Counsellor magazine
