What Do Counselors Do?
Our responsibility is to advocate for students and make sure we are doing what is best for them. We constantly meet with students, parents, teachers and administration to collaborate and help students be successful. We do this in a variety of ways:
1. Every Student
a. We love the variety and differences among all students and want everyone to be successful.
b. Programs in place for student success include: Intervention classes for math and reading, after school tutoring in Homework Helps, Lunch and Learn, Base Camp for credit recovery, etc.
2. Data
a. We use data to drive our programs and measure program effectiveness.
b. We meet with teachers and administration to address concerns and find the best possible solutions for students.
3. Plan for Career and College Readiness
a. We meet with students to set career and academic goals.
b. We create four-year plans with our 8th and 9th grade students.
c. Discuss college and post-high school education opportunities.
4. Collaborative Classroom Instruction
a. Career Exploration activities in advisory classes.
b. Counselor led lessons in College and Career Awareness classes.
c. Why Try lessons in 8th grade health classes.
5. Systemic approach to dropout prevention with social/emotional supports
a. We meet with students, parents, teachers and the administration to ensure the safety and well-being of all students. We are available to address concerns each day in a timely manner.
b. Some concerns include: personal issues, friends, suicidal thoughts, bullying, family crisis, grief and loss, transition and concerns with classes or teachers.
We believe all students have the opportunity to learn and be successful in the school setting. At SSJH, we have a Pyramid of Intervention that is used school wide to ensure the success of every student.
