VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT May 2009 Contributors: Barb Blumberg Mariel Chu Kristen Heyde Robin Jacob Tim Kelley Martha Kemp Laurie Lysenko Suzanne Paulson Jen Pros Facilitator: Pat Corrigan 1
Overview The mission of the Voorheesville Central School is as follows: The Board of Education believes that all children are capable of learning and the education of each child is everyone s responsibility. The educational success of each student depends upon a commitment to excellence on the part of teachers, administrators, support staff, parents, community members, the Board and the students themselves. The goal of the district is to provide each student with a strong foundation of knowledge and experiences to prepare him/her to be a productive citizen and to value lifelong learning. To achieve its mission the district is committed to creating a systematic framework which acknowledges the academic, physical, and social development of pupils in distinct stages over time. Guidance and pupil related services are a critical component in this framework. Our guidance department provides a wide variety of services at all grade levels. These services are a benefit to students, parents and teachers alike. While the quality of the services that we provide to our community is dependent upon a wellorganized and articulated plan it is worth noting that our counselors play a unique role in the lives of our students. Their role is as flexible and adaptable as the needs of our students The purpose of the plan is to articulate as completely as possible the services and programs that are provided by the Voorheesville guidance department. State Regulations Regarding Guidance The state regulations reprinted below provide the overall structure for our guidance and pupil related services as well as the structure of this document. Guidance counselors, in varying degrees also base their programs on The National Standards for School Counseling Programs generated by the American School Counselor Association. This document is provided in the appendix. From NYSED Part 100.2 Regulations J. Guidance programs 1. Public schools. Each school district shall have a guidance program for all students. i. In grades K-6, the program shall be designed in coordination with the teaching staff to prepare students to participate effectively in their current and future educational programs, to help students who exhibit any attendance, academic, behavioral or adjustment problems, to educate students concerning avoidance of child sexual abuse, and to encourage parental involvement. 2
ii. In grades 7-12, the guidance program shall include the following activities or services: a. an annual review of each student's educational progress and career plans, with such reviews to be conducted with each student individually or with small groups by personnel certified or licensed as school counselors; b. instruction at each grade level to help students learn about various careers and about career planning skills conducted by personnel certified or licensed as school counselors, or by classroom teachers in cooperation with school counselors; c. other advisory and individual or group counseling assistance to enable students to benefit from the curriculum, to help students develop and implement postsecondary education and career plans, to help students who exhibit any attendance, academic, behavioral or adjustment problems and to encourage parental involvement, provided that advisory assistance shall be provided by teachers or counselors, or by certified teaching assistants under the supervision of counselors or teachers, and that such individual or group counseling assistance shall be provided by certified or licensed school counselors or by certified or licensed school psychologists or certified or licensed school social workers in cooperation with school counselors; and d. the services of personnel certified or licensed as school counselors. iii. Each school district shall develop a district plan which sets forth the manner in which the district shall comply with the requirements of this subdivision. The City School District of the City of New York shall submit a separate plan for each community school district, for the High School Division and for the Special Education Division. Such plan shall be filed in the district offices and shall be available for review by any individual. The plan shall present program objectives, which describe expectations of what students will learn from the program; activities to accomplish the objectives; specification of staff members and other resources assigned to accomplish the objectives; and provisions for the annual assessment of program results. The plan shall be reviewed annually by the school districts, and revisions shall be made as necessary. 2. Nonpublic schools. Each nonpublic secondary school shall provide a guidance and counseling program for students in grades 7-12. 3
Annual Review of The guidance plan will be reviewed by building principals and guidance departments on an annual basis. This review is to take in June of each school year. During the review results for the previous year and goals for the upcoming year will be evaluated. Additionally, changes will be make to this plan as necessary. This review will be documented and made available to the Superintendent. 4
Grades K-5 The K-5 Guidance plan strives to meet the New York State regulations. In addition The National Standards for School Counseling Programs are referenced throughout this plan. This plan is carefully designed to focus on what students should know, comprehend, and be able to demonstrate to enhance their development. The plan addresses the academic, career and social goals of each student. 5
Service: Classroom Guidance Lessons for Social & Emotional Development Program Description: Activities Target Group or Sub Group Staff Assigned & Time Other Resources Assigned Outcome 2nd Step, A Violence Prevention Curriculum: Students will learn a range of feeling vocabulary, emotion management, and problem solving strategies. 5 Classes of the First Grade. Counselor will meet with each classroom and teach Three Units, resulting in a total of 19 lessons taught (per class) Counselor/ 30 min. per Class. Sept.- Nov. (9 classes) Jan-Feb. (5 classes) Mar April (5 classes) 8 hours prep time Classroom Posters Parent Letters Role Plays Songs DVD examples Students will gain an understanding of Empathy, Impulse Control, Problem Solving, and Anger Management Academic Development (standard A) Career Development (standard B, C) Personal /Social Development (Standard A, C) Meets state regs. 6
Service: Classroom Guidance Lessons for Social & Emotional Development Program Description: Activities Target Group or Sub Group Staff Assigned & Time Other Resources Assigned Outcome 2 nd Step, A Violence Prevention Program: Students will review and practice emotion management and problem solving strategies.. 5 Classes of Second Grade Counselor will meet with each classroom and teach Three Units for a total of 17 lessons, per class Counselor/30 min. per class Nov.-Dec. 5 classes Jan-Feb. 6 classes March April 6 classes Class Posters related to Problem Solving Steps, Calm Down Steps Parent Letters DVD examples Students will learn Impulse Control and Problem Solving as well as Anger management. Personal/Social Development (Standard A) Career Development (B, C) 8 Hours Prep Academic Development (C, A) Meets state regs 7
Service: Classroom Guidance Lessons for Accepting Differences/Bully Awareness Program Description: Activities I DIDN T KNOW I WAS A BULLY, LITERATURE BASED LESSONS ON BULLYING BEHAVIOURS: Counselor will meet with each classroom and teach guidance lessons related to Accepting Differences and Bullying Behaviors as well as Behavior Change Strategies. Target Group or Sub Group 4 classes of Third Grade Staff Assigned & Time Counselor/ 30 min per class Oct-Nov 6 classes 2 hours prep Other Resources Assigned Parent Letters Behavior Change Forms Literature Based Curriculum Stories & Questions Outcome Students will learn to identify bullying behaviors, make a plan to change behaviors they may engage in, and increase their level of acceptance of those perceived as different. Academic Development (Standard A) Personal/Social Development (Standard A, B, C) Meets state regs. 8
Service: Classroom Guidance for Careers Awareness/Exploration Program Description Activities My Student Planner Folder: To promote awareness of personal strengths, skills, interests, hobbies, dreams and achievements Target Group or Sub Group 5 Classes of First Grade 5 Classes of Second Grade 4 Classes of Third Grade 4 Classes of Fourth Grade Staff Assigned & Time Counselor Jan - Feb 30 minute class x 22 classes = 660 minutes Other Resources Assigned Folder Students will track personal, social and academic information throughout their school years. Outcome Academic Development (Standard A, B, C) Career Development (Standard A, B, C) Personal/Social Development 4 Classes of Fifth Grade 2 hours prep time (Standard A,B,C) Total of 22 Classes Meets state regs. 9
Service: Classroom Guidance Lessons for Careers Awareness/Exploration Program Description Activities Play Real Game Students assume and explore aspects of adult life. Lets them experience some work related situations, and emphasizes the importance of all work, ongoing education, teamwork, and positive attitudes. Target Group or Sub Staff Assigned & Group Time 4 Classes of Grade 4 Counselor March - May 10, 60 minute classes=600 min 600 minutes X 4 classes = 2400 minutes 5 hours prep Other Resources Assigned Folders Maps Power Point/Smart Board Assorted handouts Outcome Students develop knowledge of importance of a positive self concept, skills to interact positively with others, awareness of the importance of growth and change, awareness of the benefits of educational achievement, awareness of the relationship between work and learning, and skills to understand and use career information. Career Development (Standard A, B, C) Personal/Social Development Standard (A,B,C) Academic Development (Standard A,C) Meets state regs. 10
Service: Classroom Guidance Lessons for Student Success Program Description Activities Student Success Skills Students are taught goal setting, progress monitoring, and success sharing as well as memory skills, managing test anxiety, and skills for healthy optimism Target Group or Sub Group 4 classes of Grade 5 Counselor Staff Assigned & Time Jan - Feb 45 (min) x 4 = 180 minutes 5 classes x 180 minutes= 900 minutes 4 hours prep time Other Resources Assigned Weekly Goal Setting Sheets Power Point/Smart Board Music Parent Letter Outcome Students will learn self management skills, self advocacy skills, decision making skills, and communication skills. Academic Development Standard A, C) Career Development (Standard B,C) Personal/Social Development (Standard A, B, C) Meets state regs. 11
Service: Individual Counseling Program Description: Activities Counseling for students with mandated IEP counseling as well as non identified students Target Group or Sub Group Kindergarten Grade 5 Staff Assigned & Time Counselor As needed Other Resources Assigned Games, Activities, Books, Art Materials, Music Video Clips Outcome Students will be taught skills to help them be successful in school (e.g. social skills training, effective strategies for interacting with peers and adults, discussion of safety issues, gain better understanding of self.) Academic Development (Standard A, B, C) Career Development (Standard C) Personal/Social Development (Standard A,B,C) Meets state regs. 12
Service: Small Group Counseling Program Description: Activities Group Counseling/Support Groups for issues such as being new to school, family concerns (divorce, bereavement), peer relationships, anxiety, motivation. Target Group or Sub Group Grade1-Grade 5 Staff Assigned & Time Counselor October-June 40 minutes per group Other Resources Assigned Games, Book, Activities Art Supplies Music Video Clips Outcome Students learn and practice skills to help them manage emotions, interact with peers and others, and set and reach goals, as well as monitor progress. Personal/Social Development (standard A, C) Academic Development (standard A) Meets state regs. 13
Service: Liaison/Referral Resource to Outside Agencies Program Description: Activities Conferences, Phone Consultation with agencies such as Child Protective Services, Therapists, Physicians Offices. Target Group or Sub Group Kindergarten-Grade 5 Staff Assigned & Time Counselor, Psychologist As Needed Other Resources Assigned Outcome Promote health, safety and wellness of students by communicating and coordinating with outside agencies. Academic Development Personal/Social Development Meets state regs. 14
Service: Grade 5 Transition Program Description: Activities Guidance Lessons Middle School Visitation for Students Parent Night Activity Night Target Group or Sub Group Grade 5 Students and Parents Staff Assigned & Time (April, May, June, Sept.) Counselors, ES and MS Teachers, ES and MS Administrators, ES and MS Other Resources Assigned Parent Letters Parent Informational Packet Outcome Students will become acclimated with middle school building and teachers. Parents will receive information to help their child adjust to middle level. Academic Development Personal/Social Development 15
Service: Consultation Program Description: Activities Conferences about students, With parents, faculty, teaching assistants, and/or administrators for the purpose of increasing student success and school connectedness. Target Group or Sub Group Kindergarten-Grade 5 Staff Assigned & Time Counselor Psychologist Other Resources Assigned Outcome Student connectedness and success will be increased due to communications between and among home and school. Academic Development (A, C) Personal/Social Development (A) Meets state regs 16
Service: Parent Communication Program Description: Activities Phone calls, Conferences, Monthly Newsletter Target Group or Sub Group Kindergarten-Grade 5 Staff Assigned & Time Counselor Psychologist Other Resources Assigned Outcome Students will have the support of home and school working together for the purpose of optimal learning. Academic Development (A) Meets state regs. 17
Service: Spirit Committee Facilitator Program Description: Activities Bi-Monthly School Wide Assemblies for the purpose of increasing school wide connectedness, and pride in self and learning, service learning Bi-Monthly Meetings of Spirit Committee Members for Planning and Organization Target Group or Sub Group Kindergarten-Grade 5 Staff Assigned & Time Counselor, Teachers Other Resources Assigned Community Speakers PTA involvement Outcome Students will be more invested in their school experience, academically, socially and emotionally; awareness of community resources, volunteer opportunities, and responsibility as members of a community. Personal/Social Development Academic Development Meets state regs. 18
Service: Classroom Guidance Lessons for Personal Safety Program Description: Activities Target Group or Sub Group Staff Assigned & Time Other Resources Assigned Outcome 2nd Step, A Violence Prevention Curriculum: Students will learn a range of feeling vocabulary, emotion management, and problem solving strategies. 5 Classes of First Grade 5 Classes of Second Grade 4 Classes of Third Grade 4 Classes of Fourth Grade 4 Classes of Fifth Grade Total of 22 Classes Counselor/Teacher 30 min. per Class. October September DVD examples Books Pamphlets Whole School Safety Assembly, conducted by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children Students will gain an understanding of personal safety, who to get help from, and what to do in the event that their personal safety has been compromised Personal /Social Development (Standard A, C) Meets state regs. 19
VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Grades 6-8 The Voorheesville Middle School plays a pivotal role in the educational program of our students, transitioning them from elementary school to high school. We address the unique intellectual and developmental needs of young adolescents, offering them the learning tools that will enable them to work towards becoming compassionate, productive, and successful citizens in the 21 st century. The middle school guidance plan addresses specifically how we meet the part 100 regulations by providing services in the areas of: o Student annual review o Instruction in career education and career planning o Advisory for career planning o Advisory for educational planning o Advisory to enable students to benefit from the curriculum o Advisory to assist students having attendance, behavioral, academic or adjustment issues o Advisory to encourage parental involvement. 20
Service: Annual Review Program Description Activities Student Annual Review- The counselor will meet individually with 8 th graders, review current abilities/interests and future plans and complete the annual review form and a proposed course selection sheet for 9 th grade. Target Group or Sub Staff Assigned & Group Time 8 th graders Counselor/40 min per student during Jan-Mar 3 hours prep time Other Resources Assigned -HS curriculum guide -Annual review form -Student cum. records -Report card -HS course selection sheet -4 year plan sheet -Teacher recommendations Outcome Students will have a clear understanding of : -Some tentative post HS plans and careers -Their academic strengths and weaknesses -Their interests/abilities -Their proposed HS program for 9 th and subsequent years -How their academic program connects to their post HS plans The counselor will meet in groups with 7 th graders where students will complete the annual review survey and receive a proposed list of courses for 8 th grade. 7 th graders in groups of 5 Counselor/40 min. per group during May- June. 3 hours prep time -Proposed course sheet for 8 th grade -Teacher recommendations Students will consider their interests, abilities, academic strengths and weaknesses, as well as what courses they will take in 8 th grade Individual student review is not required for this grade. Grade 6 Letter/plan is mailed home to parents 3 hours in May/June -Annual review form -Proposed course sheet for 7 th grade -Teacher recommendations -For. language choice sheet Students and parents will understand which courses the student will take in 7 th grade. Individual student review is not required for this grade. Grade 5 Letter/plan is mailed home to parents 3 hours in May/June -Proposed course sheet for 6 th grade -Teacher recommendations -Band/chorus signups Students and parents will understand which courses the student will take in 6 th grade. 21
Service: Instruction/Careers and Career Planning Program Description Activities Education to prepare students to participate effectively in their educational program and avoid sexual abuse Education about careers and career planning Target Group or Sub Group All 6 th graders All 7 th graders Staff Assigned & Time Health class, equivalent of 40 min/day for 20 weeks Health teacher Counselor Health teacher Home and Careers teacher Other Resources Assigned Health 6 curriculum -Curriculum materials -Various programs and websites Outcome Students will learn about self and stress management, self image, goal setting, decision making, HIV and AIDS See activities below Counseling groups- Students meet with counselor in Sept-Oct to learn about the role of the counselor and what resources the Counseling Office has available. All 7 th graders/groups of 5 Counselor- 40 min/group Welcome to the Counseling Office game Students are familiar with the role of the counselor. Home and Careers Class Health Class All 7 th graders All 7 th graders Home and Careers teacher 40 min day/10 weeks Health teacher 40 min day/10 weeks H & C Skills Curriculum Health 7 Curriculum Students learn about decision making, goal setting, values, needs and wants, and their influence on the decisions they make. Students learn about self management, personal strengths, communication skills and decision making 22
Service: Instruction/Careers and Career Planning (continued) Program Description Education about careers and career planning All 8 th graders Counselor Annual review (see above) Students will have a view of their own strengths, interests, and some career possibilities proposed. Home and Careers teacher 40 min day/20 weeks Health 8 teacher 40 min day/ 10 weeks -Home and Careers curriculum -NY Career Zone Interest Inventory -Career info webquest -Job application activity Health 8 curriculum Students will, through a career inventory, learn about which careers match their interests and abilities. They will complete a report on a chosen career, and also interview or shadow someone in that career. They will learn what is necessary to apply for a job. Students will learn about and demonstrate self management, self advocacy, decision making and communication skills. 23
Service: Advisory/Career-Educational Planning Program Description Activities 8 th grade introduction to 9 th grade (Class lesson) See information under annual review Target Group or Sub Group All 8 th graders Grades 7 & 8 Staff Assigned & Time Counselor One period per class (5) Other Resources Assigned Outcome Course interest survey sheet. 8 th graders will have an understanding of the program and options available in 9 th grade. Familiarization with current career/college websites Counselor Counselor, yearlong NY Career Zone, Bridges, Collegeboard.com for example. Counselor will know what information is available and how to navigate various sites. 24
Service: Advisory/Curriculum Program Description Activities Individual conferences with students Target Group or Sub Group Identified and self referred students gr. 6-8 Staff Assigned & Time Counselor School Social Worker School Psychologist All year, as needed Other Resources Assigned Outcome Varies Assist students having academic difficulties to identify the causes for their lack of success and develop strategies to improve achievement Team meetings All students gr. 6-8 Counselor and teams, 40 min per week Identify students in need of intervention/support. Parent conferences Identified students Counselor and teams As needed Identify areas of weakness, problem solve strategies for improvement with family and/or student. PST meetings All students gr. 6-8 Counselor, Social Worker, MS Admin, Psychologist, Teacher, Sp. Ed. Staff, Director of Sp. Ed. Once per month Identify students in need of additional services, and which services are required. GDAP All students gr. 6-8 Counselors, Admin, Social Worker, Psych. Dir. of Sp. Ed. Once per week Share information on students having issues, problem solve. Individual counseling/ Group counseling Identified students Counselor Social Worker Psychologist Varies Student will identify and learn strategies to deal with the impediments to his/her academic success. Restricted list Students failing or in danger of failing, updated each 5 weeks Counselor, MS Admin, Secretarial Teacher(s) for whom students are failing Student, by attending required help sessions during access or after school, will raise grade(s) to passing. 25
Orientation for new students Orientation for 5 th grade New registrants gr. 6-8 Incoming 6 th graders Service: Advisory/Curriculum (continued) Program Description Counselor As needed Counselor/admin/staff June -Course guide, open house booklet -Building tour -Teacher introductions -Student buddy Counselor visit to ES Student visit to MS Student will become familiar with the building, teachers, classmates, and resources available. Students will learn about the MS program and facility 26
Service: Advisory/Addressing Attendance, Behavioral, Academic or Adjustment issues Program Description Class meetings Grades 6-8 MS Administrator, -Student Guidelines Students and parents are Counselor -Code of Conduct familiarized with school Sept., 1 hour per grade -Computer use policy expectations regarding behavior and attendance. Counselor review of student attendance and disciplinary referrals Grades 6-8 Daily; varies Secretarial, Attendance Aide, MS Admin. Counselor is aware of students experiencing attendance or disciplinary issues. Review of progress reports, report cards and restricted list. Grades 6-8 Counselor 3 hours/ 5 weeks Secretarial Counselor checks for errors, makes corrections. Attendance at team meetings Grades 6-8 Counselor, Teams 1 x per week Social Worker and Psychologist as needed Counselor is aware of students having academic behavioral /attendance issues. Parent Conferences Special Education Annual Review Meetings 5 PINS referrals Outside agency referrals Identified students All classified students Extreme attendance or behavioral cases Same as above, also family issues Counselor, Teams as needed Dir. Special Ed, Sp. Ed. Staff, Counselor, Social Worker, Psychologist 45 min/student, March-June Counselor, MS Admin as needed Counselor, Social Worker, School Psychologist as needed 27 Teams/Support Staff Family Court, Probation Community agencies Collaboratively address cases of concern as per above. Approval of next year s IEP. Intervention, improved attendance/behavior Intervention, improved adjustment, achievement, behavior, attendance.
Service: Advisory/ Encourage Parental Involvement Program Description Orientation program- 5 th grade parents 5 th grade MS Admin, Counselor 2 hours Evening in June Secretarial MS Course Guide and program materials- one per family. Parents will understand the MS program, as well as ways they can participate and provide support at home. Orientation program- 8 th grade 8 th grade parents and students. Counselors, 9 th Gr. Team, Admin 2 hours Evening in June Secretarial Related handouts Parents and students will learn about the HS program and ways in which they can become involved. Open House- Middle School Parents grades 6-8 MS Admin, Counselor, Teaching Staff 3 hours Evening in September Secretarial, one information packet per family Parents will learn of course objectives and policies for the grade and individual classes. Awards/Recognition/ Moving Up Programs Parents, students grades 7 and 8 Counselor, Admin. 2 hour assembly per grade. Secretarial, Staff 10 hours prep time per grade. Recognition of student contributions and achievement annually. Honor roll- publication to website and press Parents, students grades 6-8 Counselor, Secretarial 1 hour/quarter Quarterly recognition of student achievement. Purple Newsletter 6 Parents grades 6-8 Staff, Admin, Counselor (ongoing) Secretarial, 1 hr/week Weekly newsletter to parents. www.vcsdk12.org Current and prospective parents, community members Counselor, Admin, Staff (ongoing) Secretarial Maintain school website, particularly guidance page and links with information useful for parents. Homework Hotline Parents, students gr. 6-8 Counselor,.5hr/day 28 Daily homework postings.
Helderbarker Parents/community members Staff Articles of community interest. Parent conferences Concerned parents Counselor/Teams 1 hour as necessary Facilitate teacher/parent communication and cooperation. Phone calls, emails Any parent Approx. 2 hours/day Timely response to parent queries, concerns, and requests for information. Informational meetings/tours Prospective parents, home buyers Counselor, as needed Parents contemplating moving to V ville or enrolling their child in school learn about our building and programs. 29
9-12 The high school guidance program provides services in the following categories A. Education and Career Planning 1. Annual review of each student s educational progress and career plans 2. Instruction at each grade level to help students learn about various careers and about career planning skills. B. School Success/Parent Involvement C. Student Interventions 1. Programs to help students who exhibit any attendance, behavioral or adjustment problems 30
A. EDUCATION-CAREER PLANNING One of the fundamental components of the 9-12 counseling program is the goal of preparing students for life after Voorheesville high school. This process involves making parents and students aware of academic requirements as well as providing appropriate and rewarding school experiences to students. The high school guidance counselors provide transitional programming at every stage, with the ultimate goal of the student making a successful adjustment from high school to college, the military or post-secondary employment. An annual review of each student s educational progress and career plans occurs. Counselors develop appropriate schedules for students that align with the state and local learning standards as implemented by the New York State Department of Education. College fairs, the processing of college applications, and providing students access to military and college representatives contribute to a comprehensive school-to-career program. Instruction is provided at each grade level to help students learn about various careers and about career planning skills. 31
Program Description: Annual Student Review VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Counselor will meet with Grades 9-12 Counselors High school and guidance Student/parent/counselor students individually to Time-School Year offices, annual review interaction assures optimal review four year plan, 40 minutes per student sheets, four-year plan student academic graduation requirements, sheets, permanent record performance. and future career plans. Objective- To assure personal communication regarding progress towards graduation requirements. Activity-Counselors discuss next year s course selections, the four-year plan, review career goals for each student. Students will start an activity sheet in 9 th grade and update annually. folder information. Preparation- *Develop conference form *Hold 30-minute conferences with approximately 150 students *Develop materials to be used. *Counselors meet to discuss feedback from previous years. * Review NYS Career Plan 32
VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Program Description: College and Career Planning Students need to be Grades 9-12 Counselor Desktop computer, class Students will be knowledgeable about careers Time-Year round room teachers, counselor knowledgeable of career and the educational reference manual and college information, requirements necessary to Preparation- order expectations and qualify for jobs in those requirements. application resources fields. Objective- To have students explore careers that fit their interests and abilities, facilitating their college selection process. Activity- Meet with students during individual conferences. Once a general pathway is decided upon taking into account a variety of other factors including college size, geographic location, entrance difficulty will be factored into the search to generate a list of several schools that meets the student s needs. 33
VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Program Description: College Application Process Completed college applications need to be processed. Objective- To provide students with yearlong guidance and supervision in the college application process. Activity- Students meet repeatedly with their counselors to review the application process, ask questions and review college applications. Counselors write and collect needed recommendations and complete counselor portions of applications. Mid-year marks are forwarded to colleges. Final grades are mailed to the college of choice. Grade 12 All counselors, guidance secretaries Time- Year round College applications, transcripts, recommendations, computers Classified students will participate in the special testing services provided for disabled applicants, so as to give them every opportunity to do the best. 34
VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Program Description: Course Selection Objective- To individually help Grades 9-12 Counselors Course selection sheets, Students will have a schedule students design a realistic Time-January-September CTE school course guide. that supports his or her and challenging class schedule to meet requirements and Meetings with special area vocational and educational promote postsecondary teachers to update course plans, while assuring district and state compliance. success. Activity- 1) Counselors offerings. Preparation - distribute and discuss course Meet with departments to materials in class and discuss course offering. individually. Students receive a Meet with administration to course selection sheet, and CTE discuss staffing. Update information. course selection sheet. 2) Students are expected to review their proposed schedule Consult with teachers. with parents. 3) Counselors schedule an annual review with each student. 4) Student course requests are input into the computer. 5) Counselors follow-up with students regarding problems with their schedules throughout the summer. 6) Failures are rescheduled after summer school sign ups and again after summer school completion. 7) Appropriately rescheduled students for AIS courses as determined by subject administrators. 35
Program Description: Schedule Adjustment Objective- To review all Grades 9-12 Counselors, teachers, Change request forms, Relevant changes will be change requests and to assess administrators computer, up-to-date made which do not limit or their validity consistent with Time- Year round master schedule diminish student state and local expectations. opportunity. Continuous Activity- 1) Students must behavior issues will be discuss possible schedule addressed via schedule changes with their counselor. changes with administrative After discussing the change, approval. Schedule changes including the student s will enhance, not detract intentions, the counselor will from, the quality of the determine whether the change education that student obtains is in the student s best and assist in the overall interest. academic success of the 2) Teacher and parent input student. will be ascertained. Once the counselor validates the possibility of the change, the student will obtain the appropriate form from his/her counselor and get appropriate signatures. 3) Once the change is approved, then it is made via the computer schedule system. New schedules are printed and given to student and involved teachers. 4) For teacher/counselor requested changes, (i.e., lab additions/deletions, 6.5 credit check, etc.) changes will be made and the student informed via a new schedule. All necessary teachers will be notified. 36
VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Program Description: Maintain Cumulative Records The school is required to Grades 9-12 Counselors, teachers, File folder for each An accurate comprehensive keep a cumulative record of administrators, guidance student. confidential student file will individual student s academic secretary. be maintained for each progress, diploma type, and Time- Year-round student. testing information. Ongoing Objective- To accurately maintain all relevant student information in a confidential, central student file. Activity- Counselors maintain scheduling, diploma type, career pathway, standardized testing, student course drop forms, interventions attempted, support given and other overall information on how each student is progressing towards graduation. 37
VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Program Description: New Student Placement Need-As new students enter the school district, assessment is required to determine appropriate placement, including possible special education or gifted consideration. Objective-To assess instruction at levels of new students entering the district. Activity-Review all records from previous school including 8 th grade assessment. Call former school if necessary. Grade 9-12 Administration, Guidance Counselor Time-Year round Standardized tests Ensure that all students are appropriately placed in academic courses, AIS, and referred to the Committee on Special Education when deemed appropriate. 38
VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Program Description: Documentation and Information Maintenance Almost every aspect of Grades 9-12 Counselors Transcripts, forms, status Information on students and counselor responsibilities Time-Year round sheets, schedules, data on many aspects of requires documentation hourly computer. student success will be and record maintenance. accurately compiled, and Objective- To accurately maintained for future document pertinent reference, comparison, information to assure its and/or evaluation. accessibility when needed. Activity- Counselors are always obtaining information about students from many different sources. This information needs to be organized and maintained. Counselors are also frequently asked to compile information regarding students credits, interventions, etc. which must also be maintained and compiled. Student transcripts are revised repeatedly and status sheets filled out in order to track student progress toward graduation. Interim reports and report cards are also done. 39
VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Program Description: Strong Interest Inventory Students need to be aware of Grade 11 Guidance counselor Strong Interest Inventory Students will become aware how their interests may be Time-February and profile of the relationship between related to future career Preparation- *Schedule their interests and particular choices. Objective- To assist sessions with each class careers. students in learning the *Administer career aptitude importance of selecting a tests for each class career which matches his/her interests and to explore the careers paralleling those interests. Activity- Discussion about careers precedes the activity. Students complete a Strong Interest Inventory in the classroom. A printout of the careers most closely matching their own interest is given to each student. 40
VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Program Description: College Fair/ College Fair Field Trip Students need to become aware of post-secondary education opportunities in their college selection process. Objective- Students will attend college fairs and meet with college representatives to gather information and determine their mutual compatibility. Activity- Students will be made aware of fairs through newsletters and announcements. Students and parents attend the fairs and talk directly to representatives of the colleges. They are able to receive first-hand feedback regarding the school s programs, requirements and environment. Grades 11-12 High school counselors, Admission representatives, Guidance secretaries. Time- October, May 1 Hour HVCC campus, Guidance newsletters Students and parents will have a better understanding of various college program offerings. 41
VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Program Description: College Representative Visits Students are provided with Grades 11-12 High school counselors, College profile sheets, Students will be able to the opportunity to sit down guidance secretaries. Voorheesville profile sheets, assess for an extended period of Time- September through meeting room. a school s compatibility in a time with a representative December timely, efficient manner. from a potential college. Objective- Students will gain a clearer perspective of whether a college will be a good match for them. Activity- College representatives make appointments beginning in August with guidance secretary. Students are informed of upcoming visits through a weekly calendar and daily announcements. Students meet with representatives of their choice and gather needed information on the school. Counselors also meet with college reps to get updates on programs, admissions requirements, etc. 42
VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Program Description: Junior Conferences Juniors need information Grade 11 Counselors Transcripts, activity sheet, Students will have the regarding careers, college Time- Spring parent recommendation necessary information majors, the college/career 45 minutes per student forms, SAT/ACT registration to begin/continue the application process and their packets, college planning college career search progress toward graduation and their goals. Objective- To explain the college/career application process, gather information on future plans, and give information on colleges. Activity- Counselors meet with each junior and go over course selections for next year. The college application process is explained. College visitation is stressed and college search information and resources are reviewed. Graduation requirements, diploma type, recommendation, SAT/ACT, and strong interest inventory are discussed. guide. Preparation- Review information to be covered and given out in conference. Update all sheets for students. Review each student s transcripts; determine sequences, credits, diploma type, courses and exams needed. Schedule a conference with each student. process. Students will be aware of graduation requirements and importance of academic success. 43
VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Program Description: Senior Conferences Counselors need to Grade 12 Counselors Transcripts, activity sheet, Students understand review graduation Time- September Senior data sheet, The college/job application status, post high school SUNY applications, process. 45 minutes per student plans, and the college admission SAT/ACT registration process with seniors. Objective- To assist seniors with post high school planning and review courses required for graduation. Activity- Counselors meet with each senior and explain the college application process, including the importance of college tours, recommendations and resources available. Counselors review how to fill out college/career applications correctly to meet college admissions standards, deadlines, and get financial aid. Graduation requirements, information, college catalogs, important dates for senior year, preparation time for updating information and handouts. Preparation- Review information to be covered and given out in a conference. Review each student s transcripts; determine sequences, credits, diploma type, courses and exams needed. Fill in graduation status for each student, and Regents/RCT exam form for exams as needed. Schedule a conference with each student. diploma status and transcripts are also reviewed. 44
Program Description: Military Advisement VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Students who are interested in the military as a career need to gain information and access to recruiters. Objective-To provide the most up-to-date information Regarding opportunities in the military. Activity - Advisement sessions with members of the armed forces. Military representatives, regarding ROTC and admission to the service academies, conduct seminars at the high school. Grades 9-12 Counselors and military personnel, guidance secretaries. Time- Year round Information packets, meeting room. Preparation-Phone conversations with recruiters to set up visitations. Meet with recruiters to discuss statistics regarding senior class. Students will receive information regarding possible options in the military service. 45
VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Program Description: PLAN and PSAT Administration Students need to be given the opportunity to gain experience with college admissions testing. Objective- Provide students with opportunity to take Standardized tests in home district. Activitystandardized tests, specifically the PLAN and the PSAT, are administered during the first semester of the students sophomore and junior year. Exams are announced through the district newsletter, flyers, counselor notes, and in school announcements. Grades 10 and 11 High school counselors, teachers, administrators, secretarial staff Testing room, Testing materials, registration forms. Preparation- Order PSATs and plan tests. Get labels and send flyer to each sophomore and junior home respectively. Announce test dates on mourning announcements. Organize sign ups, collect fees and student information, make spreadsheet. Notify and update custodians with head count. Read through exam materials to prepare for test administration. Students will become familiar with standardized testing procedure and the type of questions they can expect when taking the ACT and SAT during their junior year. 46
VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Program Description: Standardized Test Interpretation/Implementation Students, parents, and administrators need information on student test scores. Objective- To provide students and parents with a standard to compare student progress and achievement. Activity- Standardized tests are scored and are reported back to the school district. Counselors use these scores to appropriately plan instruction for students. The scores are explained to parents and students as one means of determining student progress. Scores are interpreted by using percentile ranks nationally and grade equivalents. Grades 10 and 11 Guidance staff, administrators Time- December- January Testing results. Preparation- Interpret results of each student Students and parent will Understand standardized test results and integrate that understanding into learning process. 47
VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Program Description: Special Needs Standardization Test Registration Students who possess a physical or learning disability need an opportunity to utilize the special testing services provided through the Educational Testing Service and the American College Testing Program. Objective- To provide our students with disabilities appropriate accommodations to complete the SAT, PSAT, ACT, or PLAN. Activity- Counselors gather the needed materials and information to fill out registration forms for students with disabilities. Grades 9-12 Counselors, School Psychologist, and special education teachers. Time-Year round Testing rooms, testing materials, registration forms, IEPs, most recent psychological testing results, credentials, and student health information. Classified students will participate in the special testing services provided for disabled applicants, so as to give them every opportunity to do their best. 48
VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Program Description: Recommendation Writing Students require counselors to write recommendations to employers, scholarship committees, and college admission representative. Objective- To provide comprehensive letters of recommendation for students. Complete questions supporting documents for scholarship or college applications. Activity- Counselors will provide recommendations, evaluations to students upon student request. Gather academic personal information from teachers, parents. Gather student activity sheets and parent records. Grades 9-12 Counselors, Secretaries Student activity sheets, parent recommendations, MS word programs, transcripts, career plans Preparation- Read over transcript, parent recommendation, activity sheets and personal notes to determine focus of recommendation Students applications will include recommendations which will enhance the overall presentation of the student to the committees they are applying to. 49
Program Description: CTE Counselor Meeting/Visitations Counselors need information Grades 11 and 12 Guidance counselors, CTE program guides and Students will gather and updates regarding career Capital District Education program applications. information regarding and technical training to Specialists, Career programs at the CTE better prepare students for Professionals, teachers, campus. post high school careers or and administration. exploration for college. Time- September June Objective- Counselors will meet with CTE staff and area semi-annually professionals to obtain information, which will facilitate technical education experiences for students in grades 11 and 12. Activity- Counselors will meet semi annually to discuss changes in CTE programs and professional development. Counselors will also tour new programs with other counselors. Guest speakers from CTE or area affiliates will provide high school to post-secondary college opportunity. Counselors setup half day visitations with CTE, draw up CTE visitation permission form, and distribute to interested students. Students sign up in guidance. Counselors follow up with students, parents and incomplete or missing forms as needed. CTE also requests a counselor as a chaperone for the visitation. 50
VOORHEESVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Program Description: Student Visitations Students need exposure to Grades 10-11 Guidance counselors, Parents permission slips, Students will select vocational opportunities to Guidance secretary, Information sheets, sign up appropriate CTE programs to make informed decisions CTE personnel, bus driver sheet, bus. attend for their next school with regard to their future Time- Year round year. participation in CTE programs. Objective- Counselors will facilitate exposure to technical education opportunities for students in grades 11 and 12. Activity- Counselors will plan a half day visitation to Albany CTE for students to tour programs available to them for the following school year. Students will be informed via announcements and information sheets and will then sign up for the trip. Students will bring in signed permission slips to participate. Students and a counselor will take a bus to CTE for the half-day tour. 51
B. SCHOOL SUCCESS/PARENT INVOLVEMENT The ultimate goal of every educator and counselor is to help students achieve mastery of the curriculum and graduate from high school well prepared to meet the rigors of post secondary education and/or the workforce. Improving communication between home and school enhances student success in school. Aiding school success also means providing additional support. Additional support may take the form of students tutoring peers or pairing students with teachers or volunteer mentors from the community. Not every student learns in the same way, so a variety of supports are needed to help and encourage every student find school success. 52