services

Educational Planning

Educational planning begins in the spring of the eighth grade. Counselors assist students with academic planning, which includes course selection and information about other aspects of high school life. Students in grades nine through eleven meet with counselors in classroom groups to plan their academic program for the following school year. In addition, some students schedule individual conferences with their counselors to finalize their plans.

Parents are included in educational planning through annual evening programs which address curriculum requirements and recommended course of study for students in grade eight through eleven. Individual parent conferences are available upon request.

Career Planning

Starting with the class of 1999, all students will have an Individual Career Portfolio. This portfolio contains results of assessments, surveys, and activities related to career exploration. Students will participate in career units through ninth grade health classes, tenth grade English classes and attendance at Career Awareness Night. The goal is for all students to develop an understanding of their strengths and interests. This information will help students prepare for what they plan to do after high school.

Personal Counseling

Counselors are available to assist students with personal issues in a professional and confidential manner. Should the need arise, due to the nature of the concern or due to the need for extensive counseling, counselors will make appropriate referrals to agencies outside the school. In times of crisis, counselors will provide appropriate intervention and follow up with immediate referral.

College Advising

Counselors assist students in the college selection process. Beginning in the junior year, students are instructed as to the appropriate sequence of activities they need to follow in order to identify colleges that match their needs. Counselors present information through large group assemblies, classroom guidance activities and individual conferences. Students learn how to access materials that include computer search programs, guidance files on individual colleges, college guide books, catalogues and videos. These are available in the guidance office and in the library. Students are also provided opportunities to visit with college representatives who come to our campus each fall. Information is also provided regarding the ACT and SAT testing programs.

In the senior year, counselors assist students with the college application process that may include advising them about filling out application forms, writing personal essays, planning campus visits, preparing for interviews, and organizing their credentials for mailing. In addition, students are given information about financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

Referral/Consultation

Students, parents and faculty may request assistance from counselors in identifying outside referral sources to assist them in areas beyond the scope of the school's resources. Upon request , counselors can serve as a liaison between the school and referral agencies and act as consultants to students , parents and faculty.

Pupil Appraisal

Counselors are actively involved in assisting the student services team in evaluating student performance, administering and interpreting tests, and monitoring student progress as needed.