The purpose of this study was to determine if K-12 public school students are receiving adequate college and career readiness guidance (CCR Guidance), and, if not, to characterize the nature, extent, and cause of the shortfall. Adequacy is defined as the ability of students to meet with a CCR Guidance counselor; the counselor's willingness to get to know students individually; the counselor having the skills and resources necessary to assist students; and the counselor having the information necessary to provide useful advice to students and their families about postsecondary education, the military, and entering the workforce. In addition to a review of the pertinent literature, a census survey of high school counselors, as well as district- and school-level administrators, was conducted in Pennsylvania, Virginia, and the District of Columbia (Study Area). The study concluded that students in the Study Area are not receiving adequate college and career readiness guidance in large part due to high counselor caseloads; limited counselor training in CCR Guidance; poorly defined counselor responsibilities; and limited organizational support, especially in the areas of goal setting, evaluation, and constructive feedback. Little variation was found when the survey data were disaggregated by-state and by-district type (urban, suburban, or rural), suggesting that the identified issues are pervasive. Further study to determine the generalizability of the findings beyond the Study Area is recommended. A fundamental redefinition of the role, oversight, and training of counselors, as well as caseload relief, is recommended. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]