Counselors are critical to student success, thanks for all you do

To The Daily Sun,

National School Counseling Week, sponsored by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), will be celebrated from Feb. 1–5 to focus public attention on the unique contribution of professional school counselors within U.S. school systems and how students are different as a result of what school counselors do. National School Counseling Week highlights the tremendous impact school counselors can have in helping students achieve school success and plan for a career.

The special week honoring school counselors provides recognition for school counselors who "implement comprehensive school counseling programs, a vital part of the educational process for all students as they meet the challenges of the 21st century."

Here at Newfound Regional High School, we would like to take this opportunity to honor both of our dedicated counselors, Monica Jackson and Shelly Philbrick. They not only support our students but our faculty as well. They organized a pot luck luncheon just before the holidays, giving faculty members time to mingle with their colleagues. This year Mrs. Jackson also organized a Christmas party for faculty that was well appreciated and attended.

Mrs. Jackson and Mrs. Philbrick are actively engaged in helping students examine their abilities, strengths, interests and talents; for working in a partnership with parents as they encounter the challenges of raising children in today's world; for focusing on positive ways to enhance students' social/personal, educational and career development; and working with teachers and other educators to provide an educational system where students can realize their potential and set healthy, realistic and optimistic aspirations for themselves.

They work with all students to remove barriers to learning by addressing students' academic concerns, career awareness in post-secondary options and personal/social skills. Mrs. Jackson and Mrs. Philbrick help to increase student achievement and provide a much-needed resource for students, parents, teachers and administrators.

School counselors are integral to student success. Thank you Mrs. Jackson and Mrs. Philbrick for all you do and do so well.

Barbara J. Kelly

Newfound Regional High School Nurse