James W. Deuink. Charting the Course. 2nd Edition. BJU Press. 2003.

Deuink is an experienced Christian educator with degrees in education. He is currently the dean of the School of Education at Bob Jones University. This second edition updates a prior book on the guidance counselor in a Christian School.

This book divides the chapters into two parts, a summary, and a set of appendices. The first part defines that "pupil personnel services" actually includes. Then he explores the need and how to meet it within a Christian educational system. He identifies the qualifications of a counselor. These include education, teaching experience, and their personal characteristics. A table presents an outline for selecting a counselor in the Christian School.

Part two discusses the administrative duties, counseling duties, and clerical duties required of a guidance counselor. Some of the duties may be required by law while others are simply record keeping tasks. The summary discusses ways to provide necessary counseling without hiring a counselor.

Recommendation

This book should be on the shelves of every Christian teacher, principal, or guidance counselor. It is packed with charts, tables, and diagrams to illustrate the text. Sample school brochures, application forms, and other record keeping forms are provided. I particularly liked seeing a complete outline for a school handbook. Above all, leading the student to Christ while providing a solid educational experience is the primary concern of the author.