Lesson Plan

Progress Note Foundations

By the end of this session, counselors will apply best practices for writing clear, concise progress notes that accurately track student growth and comply with legal standards.

Clear, consistent progress notes are critical for monitoring student development, ensuring continuity of care, and meeting district or legal documentation requirements.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Workshop Materials

10 minutes

Step 1

Warm-Up

10 minutes

Step 2

Slide Review

15 minutes

Step 3

Activity

25 minutes

Step 4

Cool-Down

10 minutes

Slide Deck

Why Documentation Matters

Welcome participants. Introduce yourself and the importance of today’s focus: writing clear, accurate progress notes. Emphasize how strong documentation underpins student support, accountability, and legal compliance.

Workshop Objectives

Walk through each objective so counselors know what to expect. Link objectives back to daily practice.

Legal Standards

Highlight key laws and policies that govern school counseling records. Mention FERPA or state regulations as relevant.

Ethical Considerations

Discuss ethical obligations, confidentiality, and professional integrity. Stress nonjudgmental language.

Key Components: SOAP Framework

Introduce the SOAP framework. Offer examples of each component.

Best Practices for Clear Notes

Share practical writing tips. Encourage participants to jot down which tip resonates most.

Common Pitfalls

Highlight common mistakes so participants know what to avoid. Relate back to the Warm-Up activity examples.

Next Steps

Prepare transition to the role-play activity. Link back to materials and next steps.

Lesson Plan

Progress Note Foundations

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Workshop Materials

Step 1

Warm-Up

Step 2

Slide Review

Step 3

Activity

Step 4

Cool-Down

Slide Deck

Why Documentation Matters

Workshop Objectives

Legal Standards

Ethical Considerations

Key Components: SOAP Framework

Best Practices for Clear Notes

Common Pitfalls

Next Steps

Warm Up

Activity

Cool Down

Ready to Capture Change?

Destony Stewart