Counseling Center
What's happening in the Counseling Center???
Meet your Counselors!
Counseling Secretary- I'll direct you to where you need to go!
Hi there! I’m Gloria Herrera, the school counseling secretary, and I’m excited to share a little bit about myself! When I’m not busy helping students and staff at school, you’ll usually find me enjoying the company of my beloved Shih Tzus. They’re my little bundles of joy and keep me smiling every day. I’m also a huge fan of shopping—whether it’s for the latest trends or just a little retail therapy, I love finding something special. And let’s not forget about good TV! I’m always up for a great show or binge-watching my favorite series. One of the things I look forward to most is celebrating special moments with you. I’ll make sure to bring some candy for you on your birthday, and I’m always excited to cheer you on when you’re nominated for Student of the Week. Your achievements and milestones are worth celebrating!
Email: gherrera@murrayschools.org
Last names A-Ha
Hello, I’m Mr. Jimmy, I graduated from Montana State University last year with my M.Ed. in School Counseling. I grew up in a military family and have lived in Texas, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, Singapore, Kansas, Russia, Colorado, Utah, and Montana before moving back to Salt Lake to work at Hillcrest Junior High. I previously graduated with a B.S. in sociology and a passion for mental health. I have worked with youth in various positions such as a group home leader, wilderness guide, psychiatric technician, and teacher. I am excited to continue my career working with adolescents as a school counselor. I enjoy skiing, live music, biking, backpacking, reading, watching movies, and being with my cats and dogs in my free time. I am excited and eager to be a part of the Hillcrest community as a school counselor for the 2024/25 school year.
Email: jleblow@murrayschools.org
Last names He-R
Hi everyone! I’m Keri Alder, one of the Counselors at Hillcrest, and I’m thrilled to be here and get to know each of you. When I’m not here, you might find me hiking, birdwatching, or kayaking. I also love diving into a good book and going on literary adventures. I’m excited to support you and help make this a great school year. I’m passionate about helping students succeed—it's my favorite part of the job! Feel free to drop by anytime—I’m always here to listen and help! 🌲🚣♀️🐦
Email: kalder@murrayschools.org
Last names S-Z
Hello! My name is Angie Rizzuto, and I'm thrilled to be a part of Hillcrest Junior High School as a school counselor. Working with junior high students is incredibly rewarding, and I am passionate about supporting each of you in your educational journey and personal growth. When I'm not at school, you'll most likely find me spending quality time with my two wonderful boys. They keep me on my toes and fill my days with laughter and joy. We share a love for the great outdoors and often head to the beach to unwind. There's something truly magical about the sound of the waves and the feeling of sand between our toes-it's our happy place! I'm here to help you navigate any challenges you may face, whether they're academic, social, or personal. My door is always open, and I look forward to getting to know each of you better. Let's make this school year a great one together!
Email: arizzuto@murrayschools.org
Welcome back, Gladiators!
Your counselors are so excited to help you this year!
If you have any questions concerning schedules, courses, or support for this school year please feel free to reach out to your counselor! Please note that we will only be doing schedule changes during the first week of school.
Jimmy Leblow
(Students with last name beginning A-H)
jleblow@murrayschools.org
Keri Alder
(Students with last name beginning I-R)
Angie Rizzuto
(Students with last name beginning in S-Z)
9th Grade Remediation
If you failed a core class during your 9th grade year, that will be made up in order to graduate. Here are some options for independent remediation:
BYU Independent Study: BYU offers both original and remediation credit. Courses through BYU independent study are accessed through Canvas, and are completely online. All courses have pre-tests for the course, and at the beginning of each unit. At the end of each unit there is a unit quiz, so you can evaluate your comprehension of the unit. Once coursework is complete, a proctored final exam is required and must be passed at 50% competency to receive credit. If the final is not passed at 50%, students may re-take it up to 3 times, at no additional cost. All courses must be completed within 90 days. All remediation grades are “P” only. Letter grades are not awarded for remediation. Original credit will receive a letter grade. Students can sign up for up to 6 courses during the 90-day limit at no additional charge. Cost is $50 for up to 6 courses for 90 days.
Northridge Learning Center: Northridge offers both original and remediation credit. Courses through Northridge are booklet based with a few Canvas assignments. At the end of each chapter there is a chapter quiz, so you can evaluate your comprehension of that chapter. Once the booklet and canvas course are 100% complete, a proctored final exam is required and must be passed at 60% competency to receive credit. If the final is not passed at 60%, students have a one-time exam re-take for a $10 fee. All courses must be completed within 90 days. All remediation grades are “P” only. Letter grades are not awarded for remediation. Original credit will receive a letter grade. Each .25 credit (original or remediation) costs $50
BYU Northridge $50 for up to 6 courses for 90 days $50 per .25 credit course. Limit of 4 90-day course completion 90-day course completion 80% of assignments completed 100% of workbook completed Course pre-test No course pre-test Unit pre-test No unit pre-test 50% or higher on final for credit 60% or higher on final for credit
How to Register: BYU Independent Study and Northridge:
- Go to myschoolfees.com. > student account > Select category > additional credit > drop down menu- Remediation credit $50, or Waiver Student $25.
- Or you can contact or visit the financial office at Murray High School- extension #5167. Office hours are 7:30 until 3:00.
- After payment is made, email Lisa Wilcken (lwilcken@murrayschools.org) - Include student name - Course Title - Course Term - Original or Credit Recovery - Parent name and phone number
Exiting opportunity from the Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah!
Now accepting applications for the SHE Program – The Summer Health Care Experience (SHE) in Oncology Program at Huntsman Cancer Institute.
We are now accepting applications for the SHE Program!
Application Deadline: April 30, 2024, at 11:59PM ET
About the Program:
The Summer Health Care Experience (SHE) in Oncology Program at Huntsman Cancer Institute is sponsored by the American Cancer Society and seeks to increase the participation of women in biomedical fields, especially cancer research and medicine.
The SHE program provides a two-week virtual experience for female students going into their sophomore or junior year of high school. The program includes a series of virtual workshops, panels, and hands-on research activities using a laboratory science kit which will be sent directly to the participant’s home.
Benefits:
Receive financial compensation up to $500
Connect with other high school students across the country
Attend presentations, panel discussions, and professional development workshops with research and medical professionals across the United States
To apply to the program and learn more please see attachments or visit:
https://hci-redcap.hci.utah.edu/redcap/surveys/?s=YKFPPP97RNAPHYKC
If you have any questions or concerns about the program or application process, please reach out to Monica Salas at monica.salas@hci.utah.edu. We are here to help!
March Madness… Attendance Style!
March Madness Attendance Competition Comes to Murray City School District!
Get ready for an exciting month of friendly competition and school spirit as Murray City School District announces the March Madness Attendance Competition.
From March 4 to the 22, each of our schools will go head-to-head in a bracket-style tournament, aiming to achieve the highest attendance percentage improvement. This fun and engaging event not only promotes the importance of regular school attendance but also fosters a sense of community and teamwork among students, parents, and staff.
The bottom line is that if every school improves – we all take home top honors. But why not add to the suspense by bringing out the best in our students and schools through a little competition.
As part of the fun, schools will be vying for bragging rights and fantastic trophy to honor the winner. The winning school will be recognized for their outstanding efforts in boosting attendance and creating a positive learning environment for all students.
We encourage all families to join in on the excitement by ensuring that their children attend school regularly during March’s competition. Every day counts, and your child’s participation could make a significant difference in their school’s chances of victory!
Here’s how it will work:
WEEK 1: March 4-8
10 schools compete against each other week 1. Winners of the week will be announced Monday, March 11th. The school with the top attendance in week 1 will automatically move to the Week 3 championship.
WEEK 2: March 11-15
Winners from week 1 will move on and compete against each other this week. Winners from week 2 will be announced Monday, March 18th.
WEEK 3: March 18-22
The winner from week 2 and the school with the top attendance from week 1 will compete for the championship! The winner will be announced on Monday, March 25th.
Let’s come together as a community to support our schools, celebrate the value of attendance, and make this March Madness Attendance Competition a memorable and successful event for all.
8th Grade PCCR's February 19th-March 8th, 2024
8th Grade Plan for College and Career Readiness Parent Meeting – SIGN UP NOW
The Counselors will be meeting individually with all 8th graders and their parents between February 19th and March 8th. The purpose of this very important meeting is to:
· Discuss current academics
· Discuss 4-year plan for high school & review graduation requirements
· Discuss registration for 9th grade
· Discuss financial preparedness for college
· Discuss academic preparedness for college
Parents – please schedule a time for this PCCR with your student by doing the following:
· Click on the PCCR scheduling link at the bottom of this page.
· Choose HILLCREST JR HIGH and click GO
· The password is: hillcrest (all lower case)
· Enter your student’s ID number or use the lookup feature to find your student’s ID number
· Follow the prompts to complete the scheduling
The online schedule will be available from now until March 6th to schedule your individual appointments. If you would prefer to meet over zoom, schedule an appointment in Canyon Creek and then reach out to your student’s counselor directly to make those arrangements. Translation services can be provided, please let your counselor know if this is needed. If you do not sign up for an appointment, the Counselors will still meet with your student to discuss this information. If you have any questions, please contact the Counseling Center at 801-264-7494.
Additionally, please welcome our Counseling Intern Natasha Robison! She comes to us with a wealth of knowledge and experience as she has also been working with the High School. She will be taking a portion of the alphabet this year to help your student prepare for Freshman year!
Students with the last names:
A-H – Mrs. Stott (wstott@murrayschools.org)
I-N – Ms. Alder (kalder@murrayschools.org)
O-R- Ms. Robison (nrobison@murrayschools.org)
S-Z – Ms. Rizzuto (arizzuto@murrayschools.org)
https://canyoncreeksoftware.com/scheduler/ut/murray/index.cfm
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
It is that time of year already! We are making preparations for the 2024-25 school year! . Your student will be given the opportunity to pick what electives they would like to take. Here is some more information per grade:
Current 6th Graders: Please join us for an informational meeting during Parent Teacher Conferences on February 27th, at 5:00 at the Hillcrest Auditorium. A Spanish presentation will also be held at 5:30 in the Library. We will go over how to fill out the class selections card, as well as some important information on how to be a successful Gladiator!
Current 7th Graders: 8th Grade Cards are due February 7th. Please see this video for more information- https://youtu.be/LPuYH21jiF8?si=e6txwupyuiLKsabT
Current 8th Graders: Cards have been given to your student, and are due during PCCR Meetings February 19-March 8th. Please watch for announcements on how to sign up! Here is a video with more information: https://youtu.be/LPuYH21jiF8?si=e6txwupyuiLKsabT
Current 9th Graders: Cards will be due in your Science classes on February 13th. These can be reviewed with your counselor during PCCR meetings January 8th -26th. More information can be found on Murray High's Website- https://mhs.murrayschools.org/registration-1/
Summer Programs
University of Utah Summer Camps
· https://continue.utah.edu/youth
· Youth Education’s summer programs Club U, Campus Camps, and Pre-College at the U are built to inspire education, innovation, and imagination. We develop interests and passions through experiential education and extend the resources of the University of Utah to youth seventeen and under.
Spy Hop
· Spy Hop is a nonprofit digital media arts center offering free classes in film, music, audio, and design for students ages 9-19. We provide classes at our center in Salt Lake City, as well as satellite locations and schools
SLC Parks and Rec
· https://slco.org/parks-recreation/activities/camps/
· Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation offers a wide variety of camps, classes and clinics. Youth sports clinics will help you hone your skills during the off season and set you apart from the rest of the competition across Utah.
Wasatch Kids Camps
· https://www.wasatchkidscamps.com/
· Since our beginning in 2007, our goal has been to provide an amazing camp experience for kids of all backgrounds. We explore the Salt Lake Valley on daily field trips. There is no additional fee for field trips or transportation, it's all included in our tuition! Let us help your child(ren) create lasting friendships, unforgettable memories, and a summer to remember!
Salt Lake Community College Youth Camps
· https://www.slcc.edu/youth-camps/index.aspx
· Salt Lake Community College is committed to building a strong community. As part of this work, we offer a variety of youth camps designed for children and teenagers eager to learn about and engage with a wide variety of topics, from theater and cutting-edge technology to basketball and soccer.
There will be a Summer Academy in June for 9th graders to remediate core classes that they failed this year. Classes will be held at Murray High School the month of June.There will be morning and afternoon sessions. Contact your counselor if you have questions!
8th Grade Plan for College and Career Readiness Parent Meeting – SIGN UP NOW
The Counselors will be meeting individually with all 98h graders and their parents between February 20th-March 10th. The purpose of this very important meeting is to:
· Discuss current academics
· Discuss 4-year plan for high school & review graduation requirements
· Discuss registration for 9th grade
· Discuss financial preparedness for college
· Discuss academic preparedness for college
Parents – please schedule a time for this PCCR with your student by doing the following:
· Click in the 9th grade PCCR scheduling link at the bottom of this page.
· Choose HILLCREST JR HIGH and click GO
· The password is: hillcrest (all lower case)
· Enter your student’s ID number or use the lookup feature to find your student’s ID number
· Follow the prompts to complete the scheduling
The online schedule will be available from now until March 10th to schedule your individual appointments. If you would prefer to meet over zoom, schedule an appointment in Canyon Creek and then reach out to your student’s counselor directly to make those arrangements. Translation services will be provided, please let your counselor know if this is needed. If you do not sign up for an appointment, the Counselors will still meet with your student to discuss this information. If you have any questions, please contact the Counseling Center at 801-264-7494.
Students with the last names:
A-H – Mrs. Stott (wstott@murrayschools.org)
I-R – Ms. Alder (kalder@murrayschools.org)
S-Z – Ms. Rizzuto (arizzuto@murrayschools.org)
https://canyoncreeksoftware.com/scheduler/ut/murray/index.cfm
9th Grade Plan for College and Career Readiness Parent Meeting – SIGN UP NOW
The Counselors will be meeting individually with all 9th graders and their parents between January 3rd through the 27th. The purpose of this very important meeting is to:
• Discuss current academics
• Discuss 4-year plan for high school & review graduation requirements
• Discuss registration for 10th grade
• Discuss financial preparedness for college
• Discuss academic preparedness for college
Parents – please schedule a time for this PCCR with your student by doing the following:
· Click on the 9th grade PCCR scheduling link at the bottom of this page.
· Choose HILLCREST JR HIGH and click GO
· The password is: hillcrest (all lower case)
· Enter your student’s ID number or use the lookup feature to find your student’s ID number
· Follow the prompts to complete the scheduling
The online schedule will be available from now until January 27th to schedule your individual appointments. If you would prefer to meet over zoom, schedule an appointment in Canyon Creek and then reach out to your student's counselor directly to make those arrangements. Translation services will be provided, please let your counselor know if this is needed. If you do not sign up for an appointment, the Counselors will still meet with your student to discuss this information. If you have any questions, please contact the Counseling Center at 801-264-7494.
Students with the last names:
A-H– Mrs. Stott (wstott@murrayschools.org)
I-R – Ms. Alder (kalder@murrayschools.org)
S-Z – Ms. Rizzuto (arizzuto@murrayschools.org)
https://canyoncreeksoftware.com/scheduler/ut/murray/index.cfm
Your Hillcrest Counselors are excited to help you have a great start to the school year! Here are some of the ways your counselor can help:
-College and Career Planning
-Scheduling
-Short Term Social/Emotional Counseling
-Resource Sharing
-Academic planning/help
-Small Group Counseling
We are available by phone, email, or feel free to drop in during school hours.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact your counselor:
Wendy Stott (Last names A-H, wstott@murrayschools.org)
Keri Alder (Last names I-R, kalder@murrayschools.org)
Angela Rizzuto (Last names S-Z, arizzuto@murrayschools.org)
Welcome to HJH Counseling! Your counselors are excited to help you have a great school year!
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact your counselor:
Wendy Stott (Last names A-H, wstott@murrayschools.org)
Keri Alder (Last names I-R, kalder@murrayschools.org)
Angela Rizzuto (Last names S-Z, arizzuto@murrayschools.org)
Current 6th Graders: 7th Grade Registration for 2022-2023
We have planned a presentation for parents and families of current 6th graders who will be attending Hillcrest next year for 7th grade during our parent teacher conference on February 24th at 6. Parents and students are welcome. We will go over registration, picking classes, and information about our school.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to your counselor!
Wendy Stott (Last names A-Hi, wstott@murrayschools.org)
Keri Alder (Last names Ho-Sa, kalder@murrayschools.org)
Angela Rizzuto (Last names Sc-Z, arizzuto@murrayschools.org)
Current 7th Graders: 8th Grade Registration for 2022-2023
It is time to start getting ready for 8th grade! The counselors are excited to help you prepare for the 2022-2023 school year. We will have a meeting on Wednesday, February 23rd during plus period (10:04-10:33) for all current 7th graders and their parents/guardians. We will be reviewing helpful ways to start preparing for next year, as well as how to fill out our registration card to pick classes for 8th grade These cards will then be handed out during your student's CCA classes, and will be collected March 8th.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to your counselor!
Wendy Stott (Last names A-Hi, wstott@murrayschools.org)
Keri Alder (Last names Ho-Sa, kalder@murrayschools.org)
Angela Rizzuto (Last names Sc-Z, arizzuto@murrayschools.org)
Current 8th Graders: 9th Grade Registration for 2022-2023
It is time for Freshman Registration! This is for current 8th graders who will be in 9th grade at Hillcrest next year. A presentation was offered on Wednesday, February 9th for all parents and students, and we have attached a link to a video going over everything that was discussed for those who missed it. Your student will be bringing home their class registration card, which will be due back in their Math classes February 18th
Please take a moment to watch this video, and fill out the card as explained with your student. If you have any questions, your counselors are always available to help!
A-Hi – Mrs. Stott (wstott@murrayschools.org)
Ho-Sa – Ms. Alder (kalder@murrayschools.org)
Sc-Z – Ms. Rizzuto (arizzuto@murrayschools.org)
Links to informational videos: https://watch.screencastify.com/v/0dKrVT5cOXqidmoexs3i
https://watch.screencastify.com/v/MpvREzXzyVfENmiOqCK1
Current 9th Graders: 10th Grade Registration for 2022-2023
9th Grade Plan for College and Career Parent Meeting - SIGN UP NOW!!
Angie Rizzuto • about 1 month ago • Wednesday, Jan 5 at 9:39 AM • 9th Grade Hillcrest Jr High 2020-2021
The Counselors will be meeting individually with all 9th graders and their parents between January 3rd through the 28th. The purpose of this very important meeting is to:
• Discuss current academics
• Discuss 4-year plan for high school & review graduation requirements
• Discuss registration for 10th grade
• Discuss financial preparedness for college
• Discuss academic preparedness for college
Parents – please schedule a time for this PCCR with your student by doing the following:
• Go to Hillcrest Jr. website https://hjhweb.murrayschools.org/
• Click the “PCCR” scheduling link in on the left hand side of the page
• Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on the Canyon Creek Software link below our names.
• Choose HILLCREST JR HIGH and click GO
• The password is: hillcrest (all lower case)
• Enter your student’s ID number or use the lookup feature to find your student’s ID number
• Follow the prompts to complete the scheduling
The online schedule will be available from now until January 25th to schedule your individual appointments. There will be some evening availability on January 11th. If you would prefer to meet over zoom, schedule an appointment in Canyon Creek and then reach out to your student's counselor directly to make those arrangements. If you do not sign up for an appointment, the Counselors will still meet with your student to discuss this information. If you have any questions, please contact the Counseling Center at 801-264-7494.
Students with the last names:
A-Hi – Mrs. Stott (wstott@murayschools.org)
Ho-Sa – Ms. Alder (kalder@murrayschools.org)
Sc-Z – Ms. Rizzuto (arizzuto@murrayschools.org)
Hello Hillcrest Parents and Guardians!
We wanted to remind you of the resources we have available for you at Hillcrest. Through our Home Goods program, we have food, clothing, and other household items available for you if needed. Additionally, we have food bags that can be taken home at any time that have non perishable items for meals and snacks.
Please contact your counselor with further questions. Thank you!
Featured Resource: Big Brothers Big Sisters Utah
As a parent or guardian, you know the potential your child possesses, but do they? Youth don’t always recognize their own potential: however, through the example of the “Big” Mentors in our programs, Littles can start to ignite their potential.
Providing your child with an additional mentor is an easy way to help supplement their development and growth. With your support, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah will be able to create and maintain the best possible match for your child. To continue to place them on the path to success, enroll your child today!
Visit https://bbbsu.org/enrolling-your-child/ to get started!
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Featured Resource: Boys and Girls Club
Great Futures Start Here
When school is out, Clubs are in! Since 1967, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Salt Lake has offered positive alternatives to children who may be surrounded by negative influences, showing them how to live successful and productive lives. Since 1860, Boys & Girls Clubs have provided safe havens for young people by offering quality programs and critical relationships with nurturing and reliable adults.
Boys & Girls Clubs give their members, ages 3 - 18, access to dedicated, trained professionals who can provide guidance in adopting healthy lifestyles and pursuing educational objectives. Most importantly, Boys & Girls Clubs equip young people with the skills they need to resolve conflicts peacefully, improve relationships with every aspect of their day-to-day lives and function as responsible citizens.
Higher Education Week!
The counselors will be holding a "Higher Education Week" May 10th-14th! We are hoping to get the students to start thinking of different options for higher education like going to college, learning a trade, or earning a certificate. We want them to get excited about the possibilities.
Be sure to wear your college gear for prizes, and visit the counseling center for activities, and watch for college lessons that will be delivered during Advisory!
Pandemics can be stressful
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may be stressful for people. Fear and anxiety about a new disease and what could happen can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Public health actions, such as social distancing, can make people feel isolated and lonely and can increase stress and anxiety. However, these actions are necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Coping with stress in a healthy way will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger.
Stress during an infectious disease outbreak can sometimes cause the following:
Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones, your financial situation or job, or loss of support services you rely on.
Changes in sleep or eating patterns.
Difficulty sleeping or concentrating.
Worsening of chronic health problems.
Worsening of mental health conditions.
Increased use of tobacco (Links to an external site.), and/or alcohol and other substances (Links to an external site.).
Take care of your mental health
You may experience increased stress (Links to an external site.) during this pandemic. Fear and anxiety can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions.
Get immediate help in a crisis
Call 911
Disaster Distress Helplineexternal icon (Links to an external site.): 1-800-985-5990 (press 2 for Spanish), or text TalkWithUs for English or Hablamos for Spanish to 66746. Spanish speakers from Puerto Rico can text Hablanos to 1-787-339-2663.
National Suicide Prevention Lifelineexternal icon (Links to an external site.): 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for English, 1-888-628-9454 for Spanish, or Lifeline Crisis Chatexternal icon (Links to an external site.).
National Domestic Violence Hotlineexternal icon (Links to an external site.): 1-800-799-7233 or text LOVEIS to 22522
National Child Abuse Hotlineexternal icon (Links to an external site.): 1-800-4AChild (1-800-422-4453) or text 1-800-422-4453
National Sexual Assault Hotlineexternal icon (Links to an external site.): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or Online Chatexternal icon (Links to an external site.)
The Eldercare Locatorexternal icon (Links to an external site.): 1-800-677-1116 TTY Instructionsexternal icon (Links to an external site.)
Veteran’s Crisis Line external icon (Links to an external site.): 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or Crisis Chat external icon (Links to an external site.) or text: 8388255
Find a health care provider or treatment for substance use disorder and mental health
SAMHSA’s National Helplineexternal icon (Links to an external site.): 1-800-662-HELP (4357) and TTY 1-800-487-4889
Treatment Services Locator Websiteexternal icon (Links to an external site.)
Interactive Map of Selected Federally Qualified Health Centersexternal icon