Why might it be appropriate for a school counselor to disclose information shared by a student?

The correct choice highlights a critical ethical and legal responsibility of school counselors. Disclosing information shared by a student becomes appropriate when there is an imminent danger to the student or others. This situation typically involves circumstances where a student poses a risk of self-harm or harm to others, thereby creating a duty to protect individuals by counseling and potentially involving authorities.

Counselors are trained to assess situations for risk and understand when confidentiality may need to be breached to ensure safety. This aligns with ethical guidelines that prioritize the welfare of students while navigating the complexities of confidentiality. The immediate concern for safety transcends the normal bounds of confidentiality and requires action to prevent harm, justifying the counselor's decision to disclose information.

In contrast, informing authorities without a clear and present danger, sharing information for educational purposes, or disclosing information solely based on school policy do not align with the ethical standards concerning confidentiality and informed consent. The counselor's primary responsibility is to protect the student and others in crisis situations, underpinning the necessity for such disclosures.