What is the first action a school counselor should take to support Anika’s learning before recommending interventions?

The first action a school counselor should take to support Anika’s learning effectively is to review her reading and mathematics performance data from the previous year. This step allows the counselor to gain a foundational understanding of Anika's academic history, identify patterns, and discern areas of strength and weakness. By analyzing this data, the counselor can establish a baseline for Anika’s skills and pinpoint specific areas that may require further assessment or intervention.

Having a context for Anika's prior performance can inform the counselor’s approach and refine the recommendations for subsequent interventions. Understanding trends in her performance can highlight whether she has consistently struggled, improved, or demonstrated inconsistency in her skills over time. This historical perspective is crucial before diving into more direct interactions or assessments, ensuring any subsequent actions are tailored to Anika’s unique needs.

While conducting an observation, arranging for diagnostic assessments, or discussing interests with Anika can also be valuable steps, reviewing her past performance data provides the most comprehensive foundation upon which the counselor can build a support plan. Considering the implications of performance history promotes a more data-driven approach to understanding and supporting Anika’s learning journey.