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 KIT advisory class for every student, Knight Academy study skills classes, Knight Discovery free after-school tutoring/homework help, Read 180, Enriched Reading classes, Lunch and Learn, Base Camp, and online credit recovery options.
2. Data
a. We use data to drive 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 each student (8th and 9th grade) for a 20-30 minute individual meeting and set academic and personal goals.
b. We conduct group CCR meetings with 7th grade students.
c. We do career assessments to determine classes that would be a good fit for each student and help find career options.
d. We create four-year plans with our 8th and 9th grade students.
e. We discuss college and post-high school education opportunities with students.
4. Guidance Curriculum
a. Career Exploration (CTE Intro lessons in 7th grade, Keys to Success lessons in 8th and 9th grades)
b. Anti-bullying, stress management, resilience, self-esteem, study skills, and goal setting
5. Responsive Services
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.
c. We run small groups for self-esteem, stress relief, resiliency, and communication. Small groups vary from year to year based on need.
We believe all students have the opportunity to learn and be successful in the school setting. At KJH, we have a Pyramid of Interventions that is used schoolwide to ensure the success of every student.