The counseling program is a developmental process involving each student in the areas of academic achievement, of school and personal adjustment, educational, college and career planning.   The Counselor’s primary function relates to the individual within the context of the total learning experience based on the principle that counseling is an integral part of the school program.

Students are encouraged to improve their capacity to make value judgments, to practice responsible freedom, decision making, critical thinking and to be comfortable with their individuality.  The counseling staff seeks to assist, not direct them.

According to the directives of the New York State Board of Regents, the objectives of all counseling personnel are: 

1.  To assist the students as early as possible in making appropriate and satisfying educational, personal, social and vocational adjustments and plans.

 2.  To assist parents, teachers and other school staff members in understanding better the needs and problems of each student.

There are four services provided directly to the students:

                        A.  Appraisal Services

                        B.  Testing Services

                        C.  Informational and Referral Services

                        D.  Counseling  (Academic, Personal, Career, College)

Counseling Department Administers the PSAT to:  Grades 10 and 11

Grades 9 - 12 are advised about sitting for the SAT I and II and the ACT.

            Grade   9          SAT Subject Tests

            Grade 10           Interest Inventory

                                    SAT Subject Tests

            Grade 11           SAT Reasoning Tests and Subject Tests - Spring

                                    ACT

            Grade 12           SAT Reasoning Tests, Subject Tests and ACT
                                    (American College Testing  Program)

Grade 9

The Counselor meets with the entire class in small groups during the year.  Emphasis is on orientation and transition to high school developing the following themes:  academic success developed with emphasis on study skills, time management, course selection, scheduling, self-esteem, communication and relationships.  Students must also meet individually with the Counselor throughout the year to discuss personal/academic concerns.

Grade 10

Groups meet throughout the year to improve decision making and problem solving skills.  Students have the opportunity to explore career goals within the context of their individual interests, values and abilities.  An interest inventory is included as an integral part of this exploration.  Program planning and diploma requirements are discussed in depth.  Individual counseling is available during the entire school year.

Grade 11

Counselor meets small groups of Juniors primarily for developing skills in researching college options which best meet the student's individual strengths, interests and goals.  SAT's and ACT orientation, researching Financial Aid and Scholarship opportunities, involvement in planning courses for senior year and working on college applications are also part of the year's program.  Individual counseling is available during the entire school year.  In addition consultation is offered to parents with regard to planning for college.

Grade 12

This year's focus is on the college admissions process.  The Counselor assists with college selection and processes application to colleges.  Related topics such as scholarships and financial aid, essay writing and recommendations are explored.  Personal and academic concerns are also addressed.  Seniors meet with their Counselor in Senior Seminars, as well as individually to explore the admissions process and the submission of applications.  Parent meetings are offered for Financial Aid and College Admissions Selection.

College Counselor

 A full-time Counselor is available to students, parents/guardians and staff for college planning and exploration.  The College Counselor is the primary liaison to College Admissions Personnel.  Information and updates are provided on an ongoing basis regarding college choices and references.  Consultation with all level counselors for the purpose of providing resources and information is ongoing.  The College Counselor conducts Senior Seminars and Junior Groups on specific college topics.  Senior and Junior students have scheduled interviews regarding their choices.  Junior parents are invited to schedule a personal meeting to discuss students college selection.  The College Fair, Financial Aid Night, Junior Parent Night and Career Day (every other year) are coordinated by the College Counselor.

LEADERSHIP                                       951 Building Leaders For Life                       0.50 Credit

Open to Grades 10 - 12         

The attributes of successful leaders can be identified and taught.  The old saying that “leaders are born and not made” does not necessarily hold true.  This course is designed to give students the opportunity to learn the ways in which they can become successful leaders in their school and community.  Some topics covered are:  communication skills, group processes, managerial skills, self awareness and human relations skills.

LIFESKILLS                                                  820 Lifeskills                                      1 Credit

Open to Juniors and Seniors

This course provides students with helpful insights into topics that include:
Family and Other Relationships, Career Exploration, Financial Planning and Transitions.