Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) Butler University Laboratory School 55 is one of 101 schools from across the nation to the earn the Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) designation for its counseling program.
The designation recognizes that a school is committed to delivering a data-informed school counseling program in accordance with the ASCA National Model: A Framework for School Counseling Programs
Since the program’s inception, nearly 1,300 schools have earned the RAMP designation. This year, schools in 21 states are receiving RAMP distinction. Schools will be honored during a special ceremony at the ASCA’s (American School Counselor Association’s) annual conference on July 17 in Atlanta, Ga.
Under the direction of then-Butler Lab 55 counselor Aaron Munson, the school developed a comprehensive program that incorporates small-group counseling sessions, individual counseling sessions, classroom lessons, and teacher consultation.
Munson collected and tracked pre-/post-assessment data and provided counseling using attendance data, behavior data, and grades to inform a school counseling practice that supports the students.
“Earning the ASCA Ramp award signals that IPS/Butler Lab 55 is incredibly dedicated to its comprehensive school counseling program,” Munson said. “The school also received tremendous encouragement from the PSR Department in IPS, which is committed to the success of our students throughout the district.”
Munson left Butler Lab 55 last fall to become IPS’ elementary and middle school counseling coordinator in the district’s Postsecondary Readiness Department. In 2022, Munson was named the Indiana Elementary School Counselor of the Year by the Indiana School Counselor Association.
“This year’s RAMP honorees have shown their commitment to students and the school counseling profession,” said Jill Cook, ASCA executive director. “These schools used data to drive their program development and implementation so all students can achieve success. RAMP designation distinguishes these schools and encourages school counselors nationwide to strive for excellence.”
The RAMP designation is good for five years. This year’s RAMP recipients must submit a successful application by Oct. 15, 2027, to maintain their RAMP status.
The ASCA supports school counselors’ efforts to help students focus on academic, career and social/emotional development so they achieve success in school and are prepared to lead fulfilling lives as responsible members of society. ASCA has specific, descriptive guidelines on how to implement a comprehensive school counseling program that supports academic, career, and social/emotional learning of students.