What is a Grade 5 G-Talk?

The G-Talk Conference is a key ingredient of the individual student planning component of the Wisconsin Comprehensive School Counseling Program Model. Conferencing is a process that involves activities planned and directed by school counselors that assist students in planning, monitoring, and managing their own learning, as well as, their personal and career development. Through these activities, students are encouraged and given opportunities to set and evaluate their educational and career goals and to connect them to activities that will help them achieve their educational goals.

In recent years, under the positive influence of the Wisconsin Comprehensive School Counseling Program Model, there has been increased emphasis placed on the student and parent conferencing process. Quality Wisconsin school counseling programs have recognized the importance of getting parents involved in educational/career conferences and the necessity for every student to have completed an individual student education/career plan.

In addition, the Wisconsin Comprehensive School Counseling Program Model suggests that 80% of the school counselors’ time should be spent in face-to-face contact with students and/or their parents.

What is a Grade 5 G-Talk?

• This conference is the first step in the Academic Career Planning Process. The ACP is part of the overall vision for every student in the Germantown School District to graduate ready for further education and the workplace.

• Focuses on progress made toward a student’s academic, personal/social, and career development growth. Conferencing is designed to look at the future of students as they transition to middle school, high school, and eventually into a career.

• Emphasis during the planning conference is based on a review of the student’s academic performance, learning styles, talents, abilities, interests, hopes and dreams.

• Shares information about students’ strengths, interests, abilities and potential.

• Shares information and resources available through the school and community.

Why a G-Talk Conference?

• Creates a plan for each student’s academic success and career development.

• Gives the student/adult(s) ownership in educational planning and career searching.

• Generates discussion between parent(s) and student.

• Helps the student and parent organize themselves.

• Reaches every student (100% Program for all students).

When does a G-Talk Conference occur?

• During spring conferences in conjunction with the 5th-grade student-led conferences 

Where does a G-Talk Conference take place?

• County Line School Cafetorium

 Who is involved in a G-Talk Conference?

• Parent(s)/Guardian(s), student, and school counselor.

Benefits of a G-Talk Conference?

• Students take responsibility for their future.

• Parents/guardians are more informed and involved.

• Students and parents/guardians are motivated to be involved earlier in post-secondary planning.

• Student apprehension about school and future goals is reduced.

• Connections are developed between school, parents/guardians, and students to ensure academic success.