Plano ISD announced that two of its schools have advanced in the Lone Star State School Counselor Association’s (LSSSCA) award program, underscoring the district’s commitment to comprehensive student support.
Aldridge Elementary Reaches Gold Level
Aldridge Elementary was named a 2026 Gold Award recipient, moving up from a previous Silver recognition. The Gold level signals that the school’s counseling program has reached an advanced stage of implementation and is preparing to pursue the Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) designation, a national benchmark for school counseling excellence.
Plano West Senior High Advances to Silver
Plano West Senior High School earned the 2026 Silver Award, advancing from a Bronze level the year before. The Silver award acknowledges the school’s progress in building a data‑informed, comprehensive counseling program that addresses academic, personal and social needs of its students.
Leadership and Community Praise
Plano ISD Superintendent Dr. Theresa Williams praised the achievements, stating, “Every student deserves to feel supported, valued and confident in their ability to succeed. Our school counselors play an essential role in making that possible by building meaningful relationships, helping students navigate challenges and empowering them to reach their full potential.”
Plano West Principal Billie Jean Lee also received individual recognition as the 2026 Campus Administrator of the Year from LSSSCA, highlighting her leadership in strengthening the school’s counseling services.
LSSSCA President Highlights the Program
Association President Ashley Wright said, “The Lone Star Awards celebrate schools that are committed to strengthening school counseling programs and creating better outcomes for students. From our rising stars beginning their journey to our gold recipients preparing to pursue RAMP, each level represents an important step toward excellence in school counseling.”
Upcoming Gala Celebration
Both schools and Principal Lee will be honored at the LSSSCA annual gala on November 15, held at the Embassy Suites and Frisco Convention Center. The ceremony will recognize the schools’ progress and provide a platform for sharing best practices among Texas districts.
These awards reflect Plano ISD’s broader focus on nurturing students’ academic progress, personal growth and overall success through robust counseling services. As the district continues to invest in data‑driven programs, families can expect stronger support systems that help children thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
Original reporting: Local Profile (DFW) — read the source article.
