When discussing a student's standardized test scores with the student's parents, what guideline should a school counselor primarily observe?

When discussing a student's standardized test scores with the student's parents, it is crucial for a school counselor to explain the limitations and significance of the student's scores in plain language. This approach ensures that parents can fully understand what the scores mean for their child's academic performance and potential. Providing complex statistical analyses may confuse parents who lack a background in statistics, making it difficult for them to grasp the key points.

Using plain language allows counselors to effectively communicate not only the scores themselves but also the context in which they should be interpreted, such as what they indicate about the student's strengths and weaknesses and how they relate to educational planning and support.

Focusing solely on comparisons with school average scores might lead parents to misinterpret their child's performance; every student has unique needs and circumstances that should be considered. Meanwhile, emphasizing only percentile rankings does not provide a comprehensive view of a students' strengths, weaknesses, and areas for growth. Therefore, the most effective and informative approach is to clearly articulate the significance of the standardized test scores in a way that is accessible and meaningful to the parents.