HNGA School Counseling

School Counselor Services

School Counseling Services at NGA are designed using the blueprint of the American School Counseling Association's model of a Comprehensive School Counseling Program. The model is composed of four sections: Foundation, Delivery Services, Management and Accountability.

Foundation: Why are School Counselors here? The simple answer is to focus on our students, identify their and meet their needs. The American School Counseling Association (ASCA) has established high standards and competencies for Ninth Grade students, to prepare them to continue their path to high school and beyond.

The Delivery System: What can the Counselor do for my child? A comprehensive Guidance Curriculum Plan is developed each year that reflects on the current needs of the student population. Three primary areas are addressed: Academic Development, Career Development, and Personal/Social Development.

Management: How does the School Counselor know what my child needs? Management agreements between the Counselor and Administration clearly outline expectations and are updated frequently throughout the year. An Advisory Council, which consists of parents, teachers and other stakeholders help check the pulse of the community within the school and provide insight into what is needed. Data is critical in helping the School Counselor find areas where achievement results for students may be lacking and then intentional plans are formed to adders and evaluate the results.

Accountability: How will I know if the program is successful? Assessments with be used to determine if growth and positive change have been made. Once the data is dissagregated, it can be used to make improvements to the program. Other forms of assessment will also be considered, including parent and teacher input to determine program effectiveness.

Academic Services

• Exploration application of attitudes, knowledge, and skill sets needed to be successful students
• College and Career Readiness
• Understanding the link between academic success and the world of work
• Appropriate course selection
• Transitioning to Habersham Central High School
• Credit and course evaluations
• Exploration of Post-Secondary Options
• Graduation Requirements
• Planning for the ACT and SAT

Career Exploration Services:

• Assessing values, interests & personal qualities to plan a college/career path successfully
• Developing a working knowledge of GCIS and GA Futures
• Exploring post-secondary institutions including, but not limited to universities, colleges, technical colleges, military service, and work
• Choosing extracurricular activities to develop the individual, build community, and contribute to college/career planning
• Explore opportunities for job shadowing and appropriate youth jobs.

Personal/Social Services

• Developing and applying attitudes, knowledge, and interpersonal skill sets needed to be successful students.
• Consistently use a decision making model to assist in making healthy decisions.
• Asking for help when needed and recognizing appropriate adults who can assist in a time of need.
• Creating healthy boundaries in which to develop lasting and positive relationships with adults and peers.
• Resolving conflict in a healthy manner.
• Understanding self worth and value