Praxis School Counselor (5422) Practice Exam

What is the most appropriate next step for a school counselor when a student on doctor-prescribed medication still struggles to focus?

1. Referral to special education

2. Referral to the Section 504 team

3. Setting up a parent-teacher conference

4. Changing the student's schedule

The correct answer is: Referral to the Section 504 team

A referral to special education may not be necessary for a student who is struggling to focus due to doctor-prescribed medication. Special education is typically reserved for students with disabilities that require individualized instruction and accommodations. It would not be appropriate to immediately refer the student to special education without first exploring other options. Setting up a parent-teacher conference may be a helpful step in addressing the student's focus issues, but it may not be the most appropriate next step. A conference between the counselor, parent, and teacher could be useful in creating a plan to help the student, but it may not address the root cause of the focus struggles. Changing the student's schedule may also be considered, but it should not be the first option. The student's schedule may not be the root cause of their focus struggles, and changing it could disrupt their academic progress or cause additional stress. The most appropriate next step for a school counselor would be referral to the Section 504 team. This team assesses and determines if a student is eligible for accommodations and modifications under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. This allows the school to provide supports and services to help the student succeed academically. A referral to the Section 504 team would involve gathering information about