From the Chair: MSCA Is Moving Forward

This summer, the MSCA Board was joined by our three newly elected board members for a summer retreat. We initially thought we were going to have the meeting in person, but as COVID-19 cases rose across Montana, we decided we needed to move to an online format. Over a period of three days, we met for approximately 16 hours and accomplished all of the goals on our agenda. I have to take a moment to brag about the board and our executive director. We stayed focused and worked hard during this time and we got so much good work done! We were even able to have a little fun and get to know each other better. I feel so fortunate to work on this board with a group of school counselors who are passionate, hard-working, creative and caring.

During these three days, we held our board meeting while dedicating time to work on our strategic plan and standing committees, and review and make recommendations to our bylaws. Our time this summer allowed us to work on goals for the future of the organization. All of our conversations this summer revolved around how we can best support Montana school counselors, continue to provide quality professional development and help develop meaningful professional relationships across the state.

Over the next few months, we will complete our strategic plan, which will allow our standing committees to create goals. As our committees develop goals, we will be reaching out to our members for committee recruitment – don’t worry, we’ll provide more information and an idea of a time commitment. We will roll out a member survey (every two years) because we value your input and want to make sure to continue to work toward goals that meet your needs. We hope the work we do will help provide you with the resources to grow your program!

As always, check the MSCA website frequently and reach out to us if you are in need.

Contact Jessica Buboltz, MSCA Board chair, at jbuboltzmsca@gmail.com.