Saratoga Springs City School District K – 12 School Counseling Plan 2021 – 2022
Introduction
The Saratoga Springs City School District developed this comprehensive school counseling plan based on the district vision statement, “Pathways.” This document is a statement of where we believe our district should be in the future. The SSCSD School Counseling Committee was formed to develop our core beliefs surrounding the school counseling needs of our students. In addition, the committee utilized the American School Counselor Association National Model as a framework to create the district school counseling plan.
Saratoga Springs CSD Board of Education Policy
The Saratoga Springs City School District Board of Education fully supports the SSCSD School Counseling Program and has established the need to form the program through BOE policy.
Guidance and Counseling
The Board of Education shall establish a guidance and counseling program. The program shall be concerned with the mental and physical health and personality development of every pupil. The guidance and counseling program shall assist the instructional staff in helping students become responsible, self‐adjusted, productive, contributing citizens of our democratic society.
We would like to thank the committee members responsible for developing this plan, and for their efforts to ensure its implementation.
Committee Members 2021-22
Mellisa Allen: School Counselor – Saratoga Springs High School
Sophia Anzaroot: Student – Saratoga Springs High School
Judy Brust: Social Worker ‐ Saratoga Springs High School
Melissa Conyers: School Counselor ‐ Maple Avenue Middle School
Lisa Cutting: Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
Diane Davis: Social Worker/McKinney Vento Liaison
Christine Elliot: School Psychologist – Division Street Elementary School
Jamie Hansen: Teacher – Division Street Elementary School
Jennifer Kelly: School Attendance Officer ‐ District
Darlene King: Director for Pupil Services
Lisa Meade: Teacher ‐ Maple Avenue Middle School
Josh Muldner: Maple Avenue Middle School Counseling Department Head
Laurie Newcomer: School Psychologist ‐ District
Maura O’Connell: School Counselor – Saratoga Springs High School
Dr. Daniel Packard: Principal – Caroline Street Elementary School
Dr. Michael Patton: Superintendent of Schools
Brittany Pfaff: School Counselor – Saratoga Springs High School
Isabelle Pipino: Student ‐ Saratoga Springs High School
Stacey Ralston: Saratoga High School Assistant Principal
Nicole Sano: Teacher – Division Street Elementary School
Scott Singer: Saratoga Springs Middle School Assistant Principal
Sarah Sullivan: Social Worker – Division Street & Caroline Street Elementary Schools
Andrea Takacs: School Counselor ‐ Maple Avenue Middle School
Cynthia Teplitzky: Social Worker – Dorothy Nolan Elementary School
Michelle Tsao: Principal – Saratoga Springs High School
Andrea Varecka: Teacher – Caroline Street Elementary School
Margaret Wainwright: Teacher – Caroline Street Elementary School
Michele Whitley: Principal – Geyser Road Elementary
Pathways Vision
Equity of Opportunity
Overcoming barriers to equity, all learners will have the support they need intellectually, creatively, and socially.
District Targets:
- Champion efforts to foster and facilitate growth in becoming a culturally competent school district with respect for all.
- Promote access and opportunity for all students, exemplified by parity in student participation and performance across all subgroups.
Collaboration
Working cooperatively, our culture of learning will motivate all to be innovative, productive, creative and inquisitive.
District Targets:
- Cultivate shared leadership through purposeful interactions, data-driven decisions, and a focus on improved student learning within Professional Learning Communities
- Expand project-based learning, multi-disciplinary programming, and technology across K-12 learning environments
Community
Providing opportunities at all schools for families, community, and business to be active partners in supporting learner success.
District Targets:
- Strengthen the SSCSD community through family outreach and community partnerships.
- Utilize proactive communications strategies with all stakeholders.
Personalization
Teaching and learning will meet the individual needs of all learners, developing meaningful connections to support personal growth.
District Targets:
- Develop student ownership of their learning, personal goal setting, and career exploration.
- Engage learners in relevant, flexible and innovative learning experiences that adapt to meet individual needs.
Philosophy- ASCA Framework
To create a structure for our school counseling program we have adopted the American School Counselor Association’s National Model. Philosophically, the ASCA National Model provides a framework to develop a comprehensive school counseling program. The model accounts for planning, mission, objectives, accountability, professional development, and evaluation. This model emphasizes four main components:
- The Foundation: School counselors create comprehensive school counseling programs that focus on student outcomes, teach student competencies, and are delivered with identified professional competencies. This is the basis for the program. It is the declaration of the beliefs, mission, and vision for the Saratoga Springs Comprehensive School Counseling Program. The foundation for this at SSCSD was the district goal as established in the Pathways Vision.
- The Management Structure: School counselors incorporate organizational assessments and tools that are concrete, clearly delineated and reflective of the school’s needs. It describes the process for planning, and the process and tools necessary to deliver the program. It focuses on program assessment, use‐of‐time assessment, and the use of data. Additional assessments and tools include annual and weekly calendars, annual agreements, and an advisory council.
- The Delivery System: School counselors provide services to students, parents, school staff and the community in the following areas: direct and indirect student services, school counseling curriculum, individual student planning and responsive services. This portion of the framework concentrates on the variety of delivery modalities used to implement the comprehensive school counseling program. These structures, including both direct and indirect services, range from the codified, or mapped curriculum to the instructional delivery methodologies (i.e. classroom instruction, group counseling, individual student planning, and responsive services)
- The Accountability System: To demonstrate the effectiveness of the school counseling program in measurable terms, school counselors analyze school and school counseling program data to determine how students are different because of the school counseling program. School counselors use data to show the impact of the school counseling program on student achievement, attendance and behavior and analyze school counseling program assessments to guide future action and improve future results for all students. This section helps to coordinate the ways in which the school counselors quantify the added value they provide to the entire system and individual students. This is to be done using data and the evaluation of programs as they provide the personal social supports students need to be academically successful, and to be college and career ready by the time they graduate from the Saratoga Springs City School District.
The Saratoga Springs CSD Foundation for School Counseling
We Believe:
Everyone has a role
- All members of the school community play a vital role in guiding the development of our children. This includes educators, students, parents and other members of the larger community
In Access and Opportunity
- All students are entitled to a solid educational foundation with access to appropriate levels of academic rigor
- All students K-12 should be able to access the social/emotional support services needed for their success
- It is our responsibility to remove obstacles so that all students can achieve at high levels with the appropriate academic supports
- Our responsibility is to provide students with the necessary resources to achieve their individual goals
In meeting the need for lifetime skills
- All students should have access to explore career pathways by the time they graduate.
- We should teach life skills as guided by the College & Career Life Ready Framework.
- All students should be encouraged to pursue their interests
The community is vital to help guide students
- Collaboration with all parties is the key to success.
- We need to bridge the gap between school and home.
- Each student should have an adult advocate.
Personalization is the key to a strong education
- Students have their own unique learning styles and abilities.
- Each person has their own story and their differences should be acknowledged and respected.
- In the personal qualities of resilience, perseverance and determination.
In innovation and creativity
- In utilizing data to uncover new opportunities for our students.
- Students should be self‐directed, creative, and inquisitive learners.
SSCSD School Counseling Vision
Saratoga Springs City School District graduates are prepared to enter the military, workforce or higher education. Graduates are resilient, empathetic
advocates who act with integrity, and are productive, collaborative and motivated contributors to their communities
SSCSD School Counseling Mission
It is the mission of the school counseling program to provide the best possible education to every student to facilitate the growth and development of academic, personal, social and career readiness skills. Through the implementation of a comprehensive school counseling program, we will empower students to reach their full potential. Every student will be provided access to support services for individual student needs to foster high academic achievement, to promote lifelong learning and to encourage students to become responsible citizens.
The Saratoga Springs CSD Management System for a Comprehensive School Counseling Program
- Piloting SCUTA software 2021-2022 school year
SSCSD School Counseling Advisory Structure
District School Counseling Committee
- Includes teachers, parents, students, counselors, community members, building administrators, trustees, social workers, and district administrators
- Helps provide structured feedback on the overall school counseling program
District Advisory Council
- Includes administrators, teachers, counselors, social workers and psychologists
- Meets twice annually to discuss developing counseling initiatives
Building Counseling Committees
- Includes counselors, social workers and administrators
- Meets monthly to discuss program
- Joint high school and middle school counseling meetings will be held annually
School Counseling Center Meetings
- Weekly center meeting
- Updates on current programming
- Office logistics – Review Program Calendar
- Possible new initiatives
Role of the School Counselor
School Counselors design and deliver comprehensive school counseling programs that promote student achievement. These programs are comprehensive in scope, preventative in design and developmental in nature. (ASCA National Model 2012)
School Counselors
- Must maintain their professional skills through P. D. & recertification. (not only school counselors)
- The main role of a school counselor is to be a student advocate.
- The role of the counselor is to be an active participant in supporting students as they identify & work to achieve their dreams.
- Counselor must stay informed & consistent with student contact.
- Programs aligned with ASCA (personal/social, academic, career).
- Educational reform requires school counselor involvement.
- Referrals to outside agencies.
The Saratoga Springs CSD Delivery Model for a Comprehensive School Counseling Program
SSCSD Elementary Program (K-5)
Second Step (SEL Curriculum), Continued Summer Curriculum Work 2020
Grade Level: K-5
Domain: Academic core curriculum, Personal/Social
Duration: September-June
Students: 2100, All K-5 students
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Use of Second Step surveys, assessment materials, qualitative and quantitative data tracking.
Staff & Resources: Social workers and classroom teachers; second step program resources.
SSCSD Middle School Program (6-8)
Mandatory Development of Principal-Counselor Agreement
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic
Duration: September
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Departmental goals and objectives for the year.
Staff & Resources: DH and Principal
504 Case Managers
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Annual meetings, initial eligibility, reviews, support of teachers and families.
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Scheduling Changes/Conflicts
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Addressing student needs through the student schedule builder.
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Build Master Schedule
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: February-August
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Accurate schedules delivered to students and parents.
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Master Schedule Consultation
Grade Level: All
Domain: Indirect Services
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Meet with stakeholders about potential program changes.
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Second Step Homebase (Social/Emotional Curriculum)
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Improved attendance and behavior in the building. Less referrals.
Staff & Resources: Staff
New Family Orientation
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: August
Students: 150
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Survey results
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
School walk throughs
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social
Duration: August
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students/parents feel more comfortable with transition to Middle School
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Sixth Grade House Presentation
Grade Level: 6
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: September
Students: 500
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students become aware of school rules, introduction to school counselors and school expectations.
Staff & Resources: Principals, Counselors, Teachers, Support Staff
Naviance Classroom Lessons
Grade Level: 8
Domain: Career
Duration: September & January
Students: 500
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Strengths Explorer Assessment and complete a SMART goal
Staff & Resources: Counselors
Open House
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: September
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: NA
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Sixth Grade Individual Annual Meetings
Grade Level: 6
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: September-October
Students: 500
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Review individual survey results, discuss transition to middle school, the role of the counselor and how to access services.
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Naviance Classroom Lessons
Grade Level: 6
Domain: Career
Duration: October
Students: 500
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Road Trip Nation Activity and Survey
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Seventh Grade Individual Annual Meetings
Grade Level: 7
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: November-January
Students: 500
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Review survey results, academics and support students personal/social/emotional
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
High School Program of Studies Review
Grade Level: 8
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: September-October
Students: 500
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: NA
Staff & Resources: Department Heads, Counselors, Administrators
Naviance Classroom Lessons
Grade Level: 7
Domain: Career
Duration: November
Students: 500
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Holland’s Codes and Career Key
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
First Quarter Grade Reporting
Grade Level: All
Domain: Indirect Services
Duration: November
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Review all report cards and examine for errors and inconsistencies
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Academic Reviews- 1st Quarter
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: November
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Meet with students that are failing and provide supports to improve success in the classroom
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Academic Transition Event (At High School)
Grade Level: 8
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: January
Students: 500
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: NA
Staff & Resources: Counselors
Mental Health and Suicide Awareness Lessons
Grade Level: 7
Domain: Personal/Social
Duration: January
Students: 500
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: In Health classes
Staff & Resources: Counselors, psychologists, Health Teachers and Administrators
High School Transition Program of Studies Classroom Presentation
Grade Level: 8
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: January-February
Students: 500
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Selecting elective courses and educating on graduation requirements
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Second Quarter Grade Reporting
Grade Level: All
Domain: Indirect Services
Duration: January
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Review all report cards and examine for errors and inconsistencies
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Academic Reviews – 2nd Quarter
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic
Duration: January-February
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Meet with students that are failing and provide supports to improve success in the classroom
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Eighth Grade Individual Annual Meetings
Grade Level: 8
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: February-May
Students: 500
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Review course selections and prepare for the transition to the high school. Career goals and fears about the future.
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Program Recruitment
Grade Level: 8
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: January-April
Students: 500
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: PTECH/SPRING/BOCES- Identifying students that meet the criteria and are good candidates for the program. Application support.
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Third Quarter Reporting
Grade Level: All
Domain: Indirect Services
Duration: April
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Review all report cards and examine for errors and inconsistencies
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Academic Reviews- 3rd Quarter
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic
Duration: April-May
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Meet with students that are failing and provide supports to improve success in the classroom.
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Student Orientations- Grade 5 to Grade 6
Grade Level: 5
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: April-May
Students: 500
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students become aware of Middle School, get tours, video, student panel and get questions answered.
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Elementary to Middle School transition meetings with teachers and counselors
Grade Level: 5
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: June
Students: 500
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Conversations with 5th grade teachers/staff to support student needs in the transition to Middle School
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Fifth Grade Parent Orientation
Grade Level: 5
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: June
Students: 500
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Parents become familiar with Middle School philosophy/curriculum/expectations
Staff & Resources: Counselors, Principals, Teachers
Fourth Quarter Grade Reporting
Grade Level: All
Domain: Indirect Services
Duration: June
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Review all report cards and examine for errors and inconsistencies
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Academic Review & Promotion/Retention/Summer School Conversations
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: June-July
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Meet with students that are failing and provide supports to improve success in the classroom
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
New Student Registration Meetings & Placements
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social
Duration: June-August
Students: 75
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Discuss transition planning and academic advising upon enrollment. Assist students with academic planning.
Staff & Resources: Counselors
New Student Registration Meetings & Placements
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 75
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Discuss transition planning and academic advising upon enrollment. Assist students with academic planning.
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Individual follow-up meetings with new students
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 150
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students’ academic and social progress are monitored and communicated to home
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Academic counseling for struggling students
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Improvement of student success
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Individual Counseling
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Improve student success academically, socially and behaviorally
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Crisis Counseling
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Student is deescalated and returned to routine as soon as possible
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Group Counseling
Grade Level: 6
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: October-May
Students: 15
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Improved student success academically, socially and behaviorally
Staff & Resources: Counselors
Weekly Building Committee Meetings with Principals and Psychologists
Grade Level: 6
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: NA
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Collaboration between stakeholders
Staff & Resources: Counselors, Psychologists, Social Worker, Principals, Parsons
Child Protective Services
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 80-100
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Student safety is addressed
Staff & Resources: Counselors, Psychologists and Social Workers
IST Meetings
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social, Career
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 80-100
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Instructional Support Team to address student concerns and needs
Staff & Resources: Counselors, Teachers, Principal, Psychologist
Parent Conferences
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 225
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Improved parent participation/investment, collaboration between all stakeholders
Staff & Resources: Counselors, Teachers, Principals
Team Meetings
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Student success is evaluated and supported; collaboration between stakeholders
Staff & Resources: Counselors, Teachers, Principals
Letters of Recommendation
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 25
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: NA
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
School Counseling Committee
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social, Career
Duration: Monthly
Students: District
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Aligning our program with New York State and ASCA standards
Staff & Resources: Counselors, Principals, Teachers, Social Worker
School Counseling Department Meeting
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social, Career
Duration: Weekly
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
School Crisis Team: Building Emergency Response Team
Grade Level: All
Domain: Indirect
Duration: Monthly
Students: District
Staff & Resources: Counselors, Teachers, Principals, Psychologists
Advisory Council
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social, Career
Duration: Monthly
Students: District
Staff & Resources: Counselors, Principals, Teachers, Social Worker
Report Review- Attendance and Behavior
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social, Career
Duration: Weekly
Students: 1458
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Consultation Services
Grade Level: All
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social, Career
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Referrals to outside agencies
Staff & Resources: Counselors, Psychologists, Social Workers
Peer Mentoring
Grade Level: 6
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social, Career
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 50
Staff & Resources: Counselors and Teachers
High School Course Selections
Grade Level: 8
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: January-April
Students: 500
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Proctoring
Grade Level: All
Domain: Indirect
Duration: April-June
Students: 1458
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Math, ELA and Regents exams- Makeup days
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
SSCSD High School Program (9-12)
Mandatory Development of Principal-Counselor Agreement
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Indirect
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 2200
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: School Counseling Calendar
Staff & Resources: Counselors and Administration
Resolve scheduling conflicts and balance classes for upcoming school year
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic
Duration: June-August
Students: 2200
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Balance classes; Al students have accurate schedules
Staff & Resources: All Counselors, SchoolTool
New Student Registration and Scheduling: Meet with family, transcript review and input and schedule creation
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 70-100
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students start school as soon as possible with an appropriate schedule
Staff & Resources: All Counselors, SchoolTool
New Student/Parent Follow-up
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social
Duration: Within the first 2 weeks of the start date
Students: 70-100
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Student’s academic and social progress are monitored; new student successfully transitions to Saratoga
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Freshman/New Student Orientation
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: August
Students: 600
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students become aware of school rules, support services, graduation requirements and introduced to counselors and administration
Staff & Resources: Counselors and Administration
School Walk Through
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: August
Students: 2200
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students have familiarity with building and are prepared for transition to HS
Staff & Resources: Counselors and Administration
Early College Application Workshop
Grade Level: 12
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: August
Students: 80-120
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students understand process and begin completion of college applications
Staff & Resources: Counselors; Naviance and Common App
Open House
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: September
Students: 2200
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Counselors are available to parents to answer questions
Staff & Resources: Counselors, Teachers and Administration
College Fair: presented by CASDA
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Career
Duration: September
Students: 250-500
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students are informed of various colleges and programs; Attendance count
Staff & Resources: CASDA and College admissions reps
9th Grade Transition Meetings
Grade Level: 9
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social
Duration: September-October
Students: 550
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: HS Counselors check-in with freshman and explain role; student sign-in sheets
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Senior College and Career Conferences: Individual meetings with students (and parents)
Grade Level: 12
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: September-November
Students: 500-550
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students will have clear plan for life after HS (i.e. workforce, college, military); Naviance usage data; Student Perspective completion
Staff & Resources: All Counselors; Naviance
FAFSA Financial Aid Night
Grade Level: 12
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: October
Students: 300
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students and parents will gain knowledge of financial aid process; FAFSA completion data
Staff & Resources: Counselors, Guest Speaker
HESC Workshops
Grade Level: 12
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: October
Students: 50-100
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students and parents will begin and/or complete the FAFSA; FAFSA completion data
Staff & Resources: Counselors, HESC Financial Aid Specialists
ASVAB: Test administration and follow-up educational outreach
Grade Level: 10-12
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: October
Students: 20-30
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students have access to standardized testing to further military options; Number of test registrants
Staff & Resources: Counselors and proctors
College Visits
Grade Level: 11-12
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: September-December
Students: 500-600
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students will make direct contact with college admissions representatives and gain insight into various college offerings; College Profile Sheets
Staff & Resources: Naviance College Visit Sign-ups
HS Program of Studies/Course Guide
Grade Level: 8-12
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: September-December
Students: 2000-2200
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students and families have access to accurate and detailed information about HS course offerings and programs; Distribution of Program of Studies
Staff & Resources: Counselors, teachers and administration
Naviance Lesson: Career Interest Profiler and Resume
Grade Level: 9
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: December
Students: 500-600
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students will recognize careers and work activities that match their interest; Completion of Career Interest Profiler and development of Student Resume
Staff & Resources: All Counselors, Naviance
Naviance Lesson: Cluster Finder and Do What You Are
Grade Level: 10
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: December
Students: 500-600
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students will connect interests to career fields and begin to identify plan for life after HS; Completion of Do What You Are and Cluster Finder survey
Staff & Resources: All Counselors; Naviance
Naviance Lesson: College Classroom presentation
Grade Level: 11
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: December
Students: 500-600
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students will understand how to utilize Naviance college search features; College Search saved; Colleges I’m Thinking About list saved
Staff & Resources: All Counselors; Naviance
9th and 10th Grade Conferences: individual planning meetings
Grade Level: 9-10
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: January-April
Students: 1000-2000
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Completion of HS Career Plan; Course selection entered into SchoolTool
Staff & Resources: All Counselors; SchoolTool
High School Transition Night and Maple Ave. Classroom Visits
Grade Level: 8
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: January
Students: 500-600
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: 8th grade students and parents will gain information on transition to HS and review of course offerings; Distribution of HS Course Guides
Staff & Resources: Counselors and Administration
Master Schedule
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Indirect
Duration: January-July
Students: 2000-2200
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students have access to schedule that meets academic needs and provides opportunities to explore career/personal interests, Master Schedule in SchoolTool
Staff & Resources: Counselors and Administration; SchoolTool
SUNY Adirondack ECCA and BOCES CTE Student Visits
Grade Level: 10
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: January-March
Students: 60-100
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students will explore program opportunities at Myers Center and SUNY Adirondack; BOCES and ECCA applications completed
Staff & Resources: Counselors
College Planning Night: presented by representatives from College Admissions and Financial Aid offices
Grade Level: 10
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: January
Students: 500-1000
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Parents and students will become informed on college admissions and how to proceed with college/career plans; Survey
Staff & Resources: Counselors; College Admissions Reps; Financial Aid experts
Junior Conferences: : Individual meetings with students and families to discuss college and career options, current academic progress, and remaining HS requirements
Grade Level: 11
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: January-March
Students: 500-600
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students will have necessary information to begin/continue college and career search process; Distribution of transcripts and Junior/Senior packet; completion of Parent Perspective
Staff & Resources: All Counselors; Naviance; SchoolTool
Scholarships/Awards
Grade Level: 11-12
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: January-May
Students: 500-1100
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students are aware of and apply for various scholarships and awards; Scholarship applications submitted
Staff & Resources: All Counselors; Naviance; Counseling Board
High School Awards Night
Grade Level: 11-12
Domain: Academic
Duration: May
Students: 250-300
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students are recognized by colleges, school and community for their achievements; Distribution of scholarships and awards
Staff & Resources: Counselors and Administration
Naviance Lesson: Senior Exit and Graduation Surveys
Grade Level: 12
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: May-June
Students: 500-600
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students will update post HS plans and results of college applications; completion of Senior Exit and Graduation Surveys
Staff & Resources: All Counselors; Naviance
Graduation
Grade Level: 12
Domain: Academic
Duration: June
Students: 500-600
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Distribution of HS diploma
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Summer School: mailing, registration, completion and commencement
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic
Duration: June-August
Students: 100-200
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Parents and students will receive information regarding failed courses and summer school registration; SchoolTool enrollment, exam scores, report cards and updated HS transcripts
Staff & Resources: All Counselors; SchoolTool; Regents exam scores
Individual Counseling
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: As needed
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Improve student success academically, socially, behaviorally, and emotionally; Student sign-in sheet
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Crisis Counseling/Counselor on Duty
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Responsive, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: As needed
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Student is deescalated and returned to academic program as soon as possible; Counselor on duty log
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Academic Counseling for struggling students
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: Quarterly
Students: As needed
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Improvement of student success; Failing courses list; Report cards; attendance and discipline records
Staff & Resources: All Counselors; SchoolTool
Schedule Adjustments/Level Changes
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic
Duration: Ongoing
Students: As needed
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Schedule changes will be made to support student need and opportunity; Number of approved Change/Drop Forms
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Academic Advisory
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 10-40
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: At-risk students are provided daily support to improve academic/personal success; Daily student log, progress reports, report cards and lesson plans
Staff & Resources: Teaching Assistant
Student Ambassador Program
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 70-100
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: New student registrants receive support from current student mentors; Student Ambassador sign-up list
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Home Tutoring and District Tutoring Center Facilitation
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social
Duration: As needed
Students: 40-60
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students have access to academic supports to foster success; Collaboration with teachers and tutors regarding work; Attendance reports
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Academic Intervention Services
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: August-June
Students: 550-650
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students are identified and given support to improve skills in ELA and Math; enrollment in AIS classes
Staff & Resources: All counselors; Student data, NYS test scores, course grades, teacher recommendations
504 Plan: Referrals, intakes, implementation, annual reviews, and case management
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social
Duration: September-June
Students: 100-150
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students are provided with the supports and resources needed to be successful; 504 plan, meeting notes, and teacher feedback forms
Staff & Resources: All Counselors; IEP direct
CSE/IEP: Referrals, intakes, program reviews, and annual reviews
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: September-June
Students: 200-300
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students are placed in appropriate program with accommodations that will foster their academic success; IEP, meeting notes/minutes, academic records
Staff & Resources: All Counselors; IEP direct
Counseling Department Meetings
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Indirect
Duration: September-June (1x Weekly)
Students: 2000-2200
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Counselors are informed and updated on current programs, upcoming events, and building changes; Meeting agenda and minutes
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Student Support Team (SST) Meetings
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Indirect
Duration: September-June (1x Weekly)
Students: 200-300
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Collaboration between administration and counselors to review at-risk/high needs students; Student Data Log
Staff & Resources: Counselors and Administration
College Testing: SAT, ACT, and PSAT organization, registration and administration
Grade Level: 10-12
Domain: Indirect
Duration: September-June
Students: 1000
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students have access to standardized testing needed to further college options; Number of test registrants
Staff & Resources: Counselors and proctors; CollegeBoard and ACT
Advanced Placement Program Coordination: Student enrollment, test facilitation and administration
Grade Level: 10-12
Domain: Indirect
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 600-800
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students have access to rigorous, college level coursework; AP course enrollment and AP test results
Staff & Resources: Counselors, teachers, and sub proctors
NCAA Coordination: Updating and maintaining course eligibility for college athletics
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Indirect
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 40-70
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students are aware of NCAA eligibility requirements for college athletics; NCAA Clearinghouse registration
Staff & Resources: All Counselors; NCAA Eligibility Center
BOCES Liaison: Collaboration with WSWHE BOCES CTE counselors, program placement and inputting of program grades
Grade Level: 11-12
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 125-150
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students are provided with opportunities to earn certification in CTE programs; BOCES enrollment and report cards
Staff & Resources: All Counselors; SchoolTool
HVCC and ECCA Coordination: Collaboration with Ballston Spa, HVCC, BOCES and SUNY Adirondack for early college programs
Grade Level: 8-12
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: September-June
Students: 20-60
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students have access to college level programs; HVCC and ECCA application completion and enrollment
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Tutor Coordination
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic
Duration: Ongoing
Students: N/A
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students have access to academic support
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
Out of District SE: Maintenance of documentation for students who are placed outside of district
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Career
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 10-25
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Students are provided with appropriate school programs and services; IEP, transcripts and report cards
Staff & Resources: All Counselors; IEP direct and SchoolTool
Consultation Services
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social, Career
Duration: Ongoing
Students: As needed
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Referrals to outside agencies
Staff & Resources: Counselors, Psychologists, and Social Workers
Child Protective Services
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: As needed
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Student safety is addressed
Staff & Resources: Counselors, Psychologists and Social Workers
Documentation and Cumulative Record Maintenance: including grade changes, credits earned, and other documentation
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Indirect
Duration: Ongoing
Students: As needed
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: An accurate and comprehensive student file will be maintained for current progress, future reference and/or evaluation; Completed grade change forms, college or other HS transcripts
Staff & Resources: All Counselors; Cumulative record and SchoolTool
Communication with parents and parent conferences
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Career, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: As needed
Assessment & Evaluation Methods:
Staff & Resources: Provide information and support to students and parents; Email records, phone log, and appointment/calendar
Letters of Recommendation
Grade Level: 9-12
Domain: Academic, Personal/Social
Duration: Ongoing
Students: 500-600
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Counselors write and submit recommendation letters for colleges, scholarships, academic programs, etc.; Number of letters uploaded to Naviance
Staff & Resources: All Counselors
School Crisis Team: Building Emergency Response Team
Grade Level: All
Domain: Indirect
Duration: Ongoing
Students: N/A
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: N/A
Staff & Resources: Counselors, Teachers, Principals, Psychologists
Advisory Council
Grade Level: All
Domain: Indirect
Duration: Ongoing
Students: N/A
Assessment & Evaluation Methods: Stakeholders will review counseling plan
and discuss areas in need of improvement; meeting notes and presentation
Staff & Resources: Counselors, Principals, Teachers, Social Worker
Comprehensive School Counseling Calendar: K-12
Maple Ave: Annual Calendar
Month: July/Aug.
Core Curriculum: Walkthrough (6-8)
Individual Planning: New Student Registration, AIS Programming
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Referrals & Collaboration (outside agencies, counselors, administration, etc.); Master Schedule
Program Planning and School Support: Curriculum Writing, Scheduling Conflicts
Month: Sept.
Core Curriculum: Open House (6-8), Naviance Career Lesson (8), SEL Second Step
Individual Planning: Annual Progress Review (6); New Student Registration
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings (504, IEP, SST, Faculty, Department, Parent/Teacher, etc.)
Month: Oct.
Core Curriculum: Career Jam Field Trip, Naviance Career Lesson (6), SEL Second Step
Individual Planning: Annual Progress Review (6)
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration
Program Planning and School Support: SSCSD Counseling Meeting, PSAT Test Administration
Month: Nov.
Core Curriculum: Naviance Career Lesson (7), SEL Second Step
Individual Planning: Annual Progress Review (6)
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration
Program Planning and School Support: Advisory Council
Month: Dec.
Core Curriculum: Parochial School Presentation
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration
Program Planning and School Support: SSCSD Counseling Meeting
Month: Jan.
Core Curriculum: Mental Health Awareness (7), 8th Grade Transition (8), SEL Second Step
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration
Program Planning and School Support: SSCSD Counseling Meeting
Month: Feb.
Core Curriculum: Naviance Career Lesson (8), SEL Second Step
Individual Planning: Annual Progress Review (8)
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration
Program Planning and School Support: SSCSD Counseling Meeting
Month: March
Core Curriculum: SEL Second Step
Individual Planning: Annual Progress Review (8)
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration
Program Planning and School Support: SSCSD Counseling Meeting
Month: April
Core Curriculum: BOCES Field Trip, SEL Second Step
Individual Planning: Annual Progress Review (7)
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration, Master Schedule
Program Planning and School Support: Advisory Council, Test Proctoring
Month: May
Core Curriculum: Elementary Transition Program (5), SEL Second Step
Individual Planning: Annual Progress Review (7)
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration, Master Schedule
Program Planning and School Support: SSCSD Counseling Meeting, AP Test Administration
Month: June
Core Curriculum: 5th to 6th Parent Night
Individual Planning: New Student Registration
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration, Master Schedule
SSHS: Annual Calendar
Month: July/Aug.
Core Curriculum: Freshman Orientation (9), College Application Workshop (12), Walkthrough (9-12)
Individual Planning: New Student Registration, AIS Programming
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration (outside agencies, counselors, administration, etc.); Master Schedule
Program Planning and School Support: Curriculum Writing, Schedule/Conflicts
Month: Sept.
Core Curriculum: Open House (9-12), College Fair (11-12)
Individual Planning: Annual Progress Review (12), New Student Registration
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings (504, IEP, SST, Faculty, Department, Parent/Teacher, etc.); Referrals & Collaboration
Month: Oct.
Core Curriculum: Financial Aid Night, HESC-FAFSA Completion Workshop, ASVAB
Individual Planning: Annual Progress Review (12)
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration
Program Planning and School Support: SSCSD Counseling Meeting, PSAT Test Administration
Month: Nov.
Individual Planning: Annual Progress Review (12)
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration
Program Planning and School Support: Advisory Council
Month: Dec.
Core Curriculum: Naviance Career Lessons (9-10)
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration
Program Planning and School Support: SSCSD Counseling Meeting
Month: Jan.
Core Curriculum: Transition Night (8), 8th Grade HS Visitations (8), College Planning Night (10-12)
Individual Planning: Annual Progress Review (10)
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration
Program Planning and School Support: SSCSD Counseling Meeting
Month: Feb.
Individual Planning: Annual Progress Review (10,11)
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration
Program Planning and School Support: SSCSD Counseling Meeting
Month: March
Individual Planning: Annual Progress Review (11, 9)
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration, Master Schedule
Program Planning and School Support: SSCSD Counseling Meeting
Month: April
Individual Planning: Annual Progress Review (9)
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration, Master Schedule
Program Planning and School Support: Advisory Council
Month: May
Core Curriculum: Award Ceremony (10-12)
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration, Master Schedule
Program Planning and School Support: SSCSD Counseling Meeting, AP Test Administration
Month: June
Core Curriculum: Graduation
Responsive Services: Individual Counseling, Crisis Counseling
Referrals/Collaboration: Meetings, Referrals & Collaboration, Master Schedule