1. Coffee and Conversation
Grade 9 Parents
January 16, 2018

2. Agenda Introductions The Counselor’s Role The Guidance Program
Transition to High School
Important Resources
Questions & Answers

3. Counselors Kevin McGowan(kmcgowan@cohassetk12.org)
Laura Struzziery
Guidance Secretary – Nancy Creighton
Guidance phone #

4. Additional Support Staff
School Adjustment Counselor (Middle and High School)
Leanne McCarthy
Emily Manewal
School Psychologist (Middle and High School)
Caitlin Stromberg

5. Counselor’s Role Academic Counseling Social/Emotional Support
High school course selection
Working with students if concerns arise
Social/Emotional Support
Post Secondary Planning
Resource for general questions and assistance – we can point you in the right direction!

6. Guidance Program Grade 9 Grade 10
Freshman Transition Workshop series (offered during PE)
Course planning for sophomore year
Grade 10
Career Workshop Course planning for junior year
Field trip to the “National College Fair” in Boston

7. Appointments are always available as needed!
Guidance Program
Grade 11
Post secondary planning workshops
Individual postsecondary planning meetings
Course planning for senior year
Evening event – “Articulating the College Process”
Grade 12
Senior Workshops (September)
Individual postsecondary planning meetings ongoing
Appointments are always available as needed!

8. Recommendations for Success
Focus on doing your best to achieve in all class
Stay organized
Meet with teachers during office hours after school
Learn how to best manage your time
Speak with your teacher and/or meet with your counselor if significant concerns arise
Form positive relationships with your teachers and counselor
Consider and pursue ways to get involved in extracurricular activities

9. Utility Block Fifty minute period meets once each week on Thursdays
Time may be utilized to access teachers and counselors
Opportunity for the guidance department to implement new initiatives

10. Course Selection – Grade 10
Course selection communication and individual meetings will take place Feb/March
Key thoughts
Strongly consider teacher recommendations and overall course load
What courses will allow your student to continue to build a solid foundation of skills and maintain good grades

11. Important Resources
Guidance website (new website to be updated)
Parent and student presentations
College planning and test preparation information
Important announcements
Guidance forms
Twitter
Additional information will also be communicated via the Principal’s newsletter
We are here to support you and your student, never hesitate to reach out!

12. Any Questions?