A:  Our school counselors are student  advocates who work cooperatively with other individuals and organizations to  promote student development.  School counselors consult and collaborate with teachers, administrators, and families to assist students to be successful academically, vocationally, and personally. 

The district offers a broad spectrum of support to maximize the potential of all students.   Here are just a few examples:

• Goal #2 of the district's 2023-2028 Strategic Plan seeks to promote school culture, programs, and practices that prioritize wellness.

• In April 2023, Westfield voters approved the 2023-2024 school district operating budget which included additional elementary school counselors, Student Assistance Counselors (SAC) at the intermediate schools, and an additional SAC at Westfield High School.

• Suspected incidents of Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) can be submitted anonymously using this online form.

• At the intermediate level, all students participate in advisory groups where lessons are taught to instruct students in SEL competencies and overall character development.  

• No Place for Hate committees and other student groups and clubs at our secondary schools seek to create a more inclusive environment. 

• Responsive Classroom is an evidenced-based social and emotional learning program that provides our K-5 educators with strategies and language to promote learning environments, provides students with a sense of safety, and strives to value every child as an individual within the larger community of learners. 

Please do not hesitate to reach out to your child's school counselor with any questions or concerns.  Counseling contacts and information can be found on each school website under "Counseling" on the "Departments" tab and on the K-12 Counseling page on the district website.

A:  The Westfield Public School District takes very seriously the safety and well being of our students and staff. In addition to the ongoing efforts of each of our ten schools and administration to guide and protect our students, the District 's Anti-Bullying Coordinator and  school-based Anti-Bullying Specialists work together to safeguard our children and to provide a supportive environment that fosters good conduct and learning. 

Suspected incidents of Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) can be submitted anonymously using this online form.

Contact information, Board policies, and resources are posted on the HIB page at www.westfieldnjk12.org.