August 2009 - Back to School Issue by Florida School Counselor Association

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SCHOOL COUNSELOR

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE FLORIDA SCHOOL COUNSELOR ASSOCIATION

BACK TO SCHOOL 2009

BACK TO SCHOOL

GETTING BACK TO WORK

Spend Your Summer Totalling Up Scholarships Earned By Your Students?

ScholarshipPlus.com

The Best Way to Manage Scholarship Information At Your High School and Across Your District Each year, high school counselors scramble at the end of the school year to pull together reports for superintendents about the scholarships earned by their students. Counselors also prepare scholarship reports for Honors Day programs and parent organizations. And throughout the school year, counselors are collecting scholarship information, creating scholarship newsletters and working with students to earn scholarships. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a time consuming process ... but there is a better way ... ScholarshipPlus.com ScholarshipPlus.com is an online system designed by high school counselors for high school counselors: - Reports that allow you to simply cut-and-paste into an honors day program. - Custom reports by type of sport for athletic scholarships. - Sub-report academic scholarships by things such as military, arts or state scholarships from lottery money. - Rapid-entry tools for students that earn multiple scholarships. - Create online scholarship newsletters and post scholarships unique to your school or school district online. As counselors compile scholarships earned by students at their school, ScholarshipPlus totals up district-wide results, too. No need for double work at the school and district level. Best of all, ScholarshipPlus can save counselors dozens of hours a year developing scholarship newsletters, compiling scholarships and organizing information.

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CONTENTS FEATURES

The Florida School Counselor Association 2009 Essay Competition

Accessing the Florida College System

Beating Obesity: It Takes a Village

A Saturday Success Academy to Improve Ninth Grade Success

DEPARTMENTS

PUBLISHER Florida School Counselor Association P.O. Box 752 Safety Harbor, Fl 34695-0752 Phone or Fax: (888) 785-8611 www.fla-schoolcounselor.org fsca@fla-schoolcounselor.org CO-EDITORS Russell A. Sabella, Ph.D. Jessica Metzler ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE Ken Cibroski ken@adguidance.com (877) 965-7492 (877) 562-9189, fax

President’s Message

Vice President’s View: Elementary Level

Vice President’s View: Middle School Level

Vice President’s View: Secondary Level

Past President’s Message

Region Reports

FSCA Chapters Update

FSCA Benefits and Services

FSCA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

PRESIDENT Curtis Jenkins cjenkins1@dadeschools.net

COLLECTIVE STRENGTH FOR A NEW SCHOOL YEAR

PAST-PRESIDENT Susan Gertel sgertel@gmail.com PRESIDENT-ELECT Region 5 V.P. Sharon Dolinsky sgdolinsky@gmail.com

BY CURTIS JENKINS, FSCA PRESIDENT ELEMENTARY VICE PRESIDENT Joni Shook shookj@duvalschools.org

ou may think I’m crazy, but I’m pumped up and excited about this school year. Sure, we are in a real economic slump. Some of our friends and colleagues have lost their positions, but this is the time when our students need us most. Frankly, we need to support each other so that we can be our best for our students. The Florida School Counselor Association is here for you. We will not cut back on our efforts to provide meaningful and timely support and training for school counselors, but we cannot do it without you. I am reminded of the dark days after Hurricane Andrew. Our home was destroyed and hope for the future dashed. An overwhelming sense of hopelessness sucked the life out of every task. And then something remarkable happened. One person gave a bag of ice, another brought a grill and everyone emptied their icebox. Friend and stranger, young and old, we all came together to survive those weeks and months. Still concerned but less afraid, we pooled our resources and became stronger. That’s what we need to do now. Together we will stand strong and weather this time of economic uncertainty. The Florida School Counselor Association is committed to empowering school counselors with the knowledge, skills, linkages and resources to promote student success. You can stay current by visiting our Web site, or connect with colleagues and share information at our networking site, FSCA Forum, receive our news blog or even catch us on Twitter. Now, more than ever, is the time to make the commitment to grow professionally. Make your membership count – get involved. We have many opportunities waiting for you. You will gain new friendships, develop your skills and maybe even ignite that fire of enthusiasm. So, join me and get pumped up for this school year. You’ll be glad you did. ■

The Florida School

Counselor Association is

committed to empowering school counselors with the

knowledge, skills, linkages

and resources to promote student success.

Curtis Jenkins is the current FSCA president. He can be reached at cjenkins1@dadeschools.net.

MIDDLE SCHOOL VICE PRESIDENT Laurie Fedenko fedenkol@pcsb.org HIGH SCHOOL VICE PRESIDENT Chris Smith chrissmith0529@gmail.com POST SECONDARY VICE PRESIDENT Mercedes ter Maat mbtermaat@comcast.net DISTRICT LEVEL SUPERVISOR VICE PRESIDENT Karalia Baldwin baldwink@pcsb.org REGION 1 VICE PRESIDENT Ginger Green Gingergreen@gmail.com REGION 2 VICE PRESIDENT Nan Worsowicz worsowiczn@duvalschools.org REGION 3 CO-VICE PRESIDENT Tina Bulled tina.bulled@ocps.net REGION 3 CO-VICE PRESIDENT Danielle Exposito danielle.exposito@ocps.net REGION 4 VICE PRESIDENT Eva Christu echistu@tampabay.rr.com

EDITORIAL POLICY FSCA welcomes unsolicited articles and letters deemed to be of interest to the members. Submissions will not be returned and may be edited for purposes of clarity and space. Use email if possible. Always include your name, address, daytime phone number, fax number and e-mail address with your submission. Opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the association’s membership, volunteers or staff. ADVERTISING POLICY FSCA reserves the right to edit copy and to refuse advertisements it deems objectionable. The publication of an advertisement in the Florida School Counselor is not an endorsement of the advertiser or of the advertised product or service. FSCA is not responsible for any claims made in advertisements. To determine accreditation status of educational institutions, consult the state and regional accrediting directories or the state department of education. MEMBERSHIP FSCA membership dues are $30/year, of which $5 is for a subscription to the Florida School Counselor. The Florida School Counselor is published five times per year in July, August (Back to School Issue), October, January, and April by the Florida School Counselor Association Inc., P.O. Box 752, Safety Harbor, Fl 34695-0752.

BACK TO SCHOOL 2009

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THE FLORIDA SCHOOL COUNSELOR ASSOCIATION 2009 ESSAY COMPETITION ast May the two recipients of the FSCA 2009 Scholarship Essay Competition were

counselor, my impeccably

the dedicated and well-rounded student that I am today. She has taught me that you get no where in life if you never try. An unknown author once said it best, “A lot of people have gone further than they thought they could because someone else thought they could.” I know that I can and will make an impact on someone else’s life as Ms. Mueller has done in my life. Every high school should be fortunate enough to have a Ms. Mueller on staff guiding the pathway of its students. I’m just thankful and grateful that she is my guidance counselor.

diversified resume has

BY BRIAN ROCHE

selected among 400 entries. The focus of the essay was “How has your school

counselor impacted you?” We were heartened by all the amazing ways that stu-

dents across the state let us know how their school counselors are helpful to them. Finalizing the decision to pick two was extremely difficult. We congratulate Andrew Orso and Brian Roche, who were each awarded $500. Here is what they had to say.

BY ANDREW ORSO

“With the help and

Plant City High School Jackie Robinson, the Brooklyn Dodgers infielder, summed up his life saying, “A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.” No truer statement could be made about Sherrie Mueller, who has greatly impacted not only my life, but countless other students who have passed through the halls of Plant City High School. She is one of the greatest assets my school possesses. For the past four years, Ms. Mueller has provided me with support and guidance as I navigate my way through high school toward college. More importantly, she has continuously provided me with a multitude of amazing scholarships and opportunities that have enriched my life and boosted my self esteem. In my junior year, Ms. Mueller offered me an opportunity to apply for a scholarship to partake in a unique leadership experience. I was fortunate enough to be one of 42 students chosen out of 1,300 applicants to attend the Trent Lott Leadership Institute at the University of Mississippi. This experience allowed me to attend college classes, experience college life and make lifelong friends from around the world. Today I have forged my own political views and am quite capable of discussing them in open forum and I am comfortable delivering a persuasive speech to a wavering crowd. This encounter fostered my educational growth and provided a strong basis for my personal growth. Ms. Mueller always encourages me to step outside of my comfort zone and

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involvement of my guidance

gained me acceptance into several top-ranking universities.” explore opportunities and apply for scholarships that I would typically pass over. Her maxim is “Someone has got to win, so why not let it be you?” I have taken this to heart and have engrossed myself in applying for as many scholarships as possible. Ms. Mueller has taken her personal involvement a step further and has enlisted the help of my mother to make sure that every scholarship she sends home gets completed and delivered before the deadline. She recently accompanied me and my mother to a social function for a scholarship to the University of Virginia. I was the only student that brought my guidance counselor, but I felt that had it not been for Ms. Mueller I would have never received such an opportunity. Even though I did not win, the experience alone was invaluable. With the help and involvement of my guidance counselor, my impeccably diversified resume has gained me acceptance into several top-ranking universities. Because of the unique opportunities Ms. Mueller has afforded me I am

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Cypress Creek High School Danielle Exposito is not just a high school guidance counselor, she is a superhero. As defined by the dictionary, a superhero is one who possesses extraordinary powers or skills. Using this definition to describe Mrs. Exposito is truly an understatement. Although my description may sound a bit childish, there is no other way to describe a person who balances the class scheduling of numerous students, the tracking of senior graduation requirements, the planning of informational college days at school and still manages to create time to give her students personal attention to not only determine their future path but to also leave them feeling confident and motivated. Mrs. Exposito has changed my perspective on not only college and my career goals, but she has also shown me that the planning of your future does not have to be a tedious and frustrating process; instead it can be an exciting journey that fills you with optimism. Although Mrs. Exposito is much more than merely a guidance counselor, she fulfills her job greater than any counselor I have ever had. In all my years of school, not once have I ever encountered any faculty member as dedicated to their position as she is. Any and every ques-

tion I have is not only answered but acted upon as well. I remember starting high school and not knowing what classes to take and how to get into college. As the first in my family to go to college, I felt lost and unguided. The day I met Mrs. Exposito that all changed. The greatest thing about Mrs. Exposito was that she did not pick out what classes and activities she believed are right for me; instead guided me to make my own decision on what I felt was right for me. I believe that is the essence of what a great guidance counselor does. Just the thought of knowing I can come to her for any help keeps me confident and at ease as I begin planning the rest of my life. The thing about Mrs. Exposito is that not only does she carry out her job at the greatest caliber and with undeniable passion, but she also leaves me feeling confident after every meeting. As you walk into her office you’re greeted with a huge warm smile. I always as the same question, “Are you busy?” Her reply is always the same, “Yes very! But I always

“The greatest thing about Mrs. Exposito was that she did not pick out what classes and activities she believed are right for me but instead guided me to make my own decision on what I felt was right for me.” have time for you.” She makes her students feel important and unique. And all the years I’ve known Mrs. Exposito, I can truthfully say she has never made a negative comment when I have been in her office. Her office is a safe haven for those who are confused and worried. She handles her business with smiles and laughs. I catch myself wondering, “Can the planning of my future really be this

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simple and fun?” The answer is “Yes” if your guidance counselor is Danielle Exposito. She has left me feeling so optimistic about my future there is no possible way I can repay her for the impact she has had on me. Mrs. Exposito is a very important person in my life. On the night I received my acceptance notification from Florida State University, the first thing that crossed my mind before I exploded with joy was how I could not wait to burst into her office and give her the greatest hug I have ever given anyone. Mrs. Exposito has impacted me by changing my outlook on the future and showing me that the planning of my future education and career goals can be an event that leaves one filled with hope and excitement. Mrs. Exposito possesses the extraordinary skill to guide you through life-changing decisions and the extraordinary power to leave you feeling confident in all you do. I guess she really is a superhero, or at least she is mine. ■

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The program is offered free of charge to participating schools. Long term profit sharing and other financial incentives are provided to participating schools. Schools can tailor the program to the needs of the student community. Ideal complement to state mandated career path programs StudentInfo2Go™ is a turn-key program that includes design, manufacture and monthly distribution.

ACCESSING THE FLORIDA COLLEGE SYSTEM uring the 2009 legislative session, Florida’s Community College System was redesignated The Florida College System. Some colleges have dropped “community” from their name, while others have added “state”; however, all colleges maintain the historic mission of a “community” college including open admission for associate degrees, remediation, response to community needs, outreach to underserved populations and statewide articulation agreements. Florida’s 28 colleges are open to everyone and offer GED training, adult basic education, as well as certificate, associate and bachelor’s degree programs. Certificate and degree programs offered at the colleges range from auto mechanics to nursing to the associate in arts degree, which guarantees transfer to a state university. Many colleges are now offering bachelor’s degrees as well. Students planning to pursue an associate’s or bachelor’s degree will need to earn a standard high school diploma or a GED.

I have noticed that many colleges have changed their name. Does this mean that the institutions still have an open door admissions policy? ■ Yes, all 28 colleges in the system have an open-door admissions policy. Some colleges have dropped “community” from their name, while others have added “state”; however, all of the colleges remain open door institutions. Upon admission, students are required to take the CPT, ACT or SAT to determine placement in developmental and college-ready courses and there is no GPA or SAT/ACT score required for admission. What should students do to prepare for college? ■ Fill out the college application in the spring of the senior year of high school. (This can be found on the Web site of the school the student is

interested in attending or on FACTS.org). Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, more commonly known as the FAFSA, to find out what type of financial aid the student is eligible to receive. The FAFSA can be found online at http://fafsa.ed.gov. Students will want to fill this out as soon as possible in the spring of their senior year of high school. Students who graduate with a standard high school diploma or CPT-eligible Certificate of Completion and want to enroll in a degree program (associate in arts or associate in science), must take the College Placement Test or CPT. Students can take the CPT at any of the 28 colleges. The CPT is used to determine what courses the student should enroll in. A student’s ACT or SAT score can also be used to determine which courses the student should take.

How can students get help paying for college? ■ Apply for federal and state financial aid by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA. The application can be found at http://fafsa.ed.gov. Filling out the application is free and there is money available. There are Web sites which charge for this service. The http://fafsa.ed.gov is free and sponsored by the United States Department of Education. ■ Make sure to search for scholarships offered by area colleges. ■ Attend “Financial Aid Night” events in the local area. ■ Check out http://www.floridastudent financialaid.org to find out about the different types of financial aid available to Florida residents. ■ Check out http://studentaid.ed.gov to find out about financial aid opportunities offered through the federal government.

Can a student be admitted go to a Florida college if he/she graduates with a special diploma? ■ If a student earns a special diploma, he/she may enroll in career and technical certificate programs, GED, and Adult Basic Education. Most of the 28 colleges offer career and technical programs as well as GED and Adult Basic Education. Students should check the Web site of the college they are interested in attending to find out more about specific career and technical certificate programs being offered at the institution.

What should a student do once he/she has been admitted to college? ■ Attend orientation. ■ Visit an academic advisor to find out what classes they should take. ■ Get involved in campus activities. ■ Register for the Student Success Skills course. ■ Find out where the Math and Writing Labs are on campus. ■ Register with the Disability Services office, if necessary.

■

Can a student enroll in a degree program with a GED? ■ Yes, students who successfully complete the GED may enroll in a degree seeking program. If a student earns a GED, he or she will be required to take the CPT or present ACT or SAT scores to determine which courses they should enroll in.

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Where can a student go to get help on the college campus? ■ The financial aid office can answer questions concerning financial aid and paying for college. ■ The Advising Center can answer questions concerning course schedule. ■ The Math and Writing Labs can assist with tutoring. ■ This article was provided by the Florida Department of Education.

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BEATING OBESITY: IT TAKES A VILLAGE BY SALLY CONNOLLY

orget special diets. If you want to lose weight, eat less, exercise at least 90 minutes each week and get support for your efforts. Writing in the Feb. 26, 2009, issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, researchers report that overweight or obese adults in their two-year study lost weight mainly by reducing their caloric intake. Contrary to the claims of proponents of the Atkins Diet, the South Beach Diet and others, the source of the calories mattered less than the actual amount. Dieters were just as successful when the calories came from reduced carbohydrates, reduced protein or reduced fat. Participants in the study included 811 adults, male and female, in two locations: Boston and Louisiana. They were divided into four groups, each of which was assigned to eating varying proportions of heart-healthy foods selected from the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan. The regimen also included a moderate amount of weekly exercise (90 minutes) and individual as well as group counseling sessions. Although they varied in age, income and geographical location, participants in the study shared a key ingredient in weight loss: motivation. Researchers found that participants lost the greatest amount of weight during the first six months. Similar to the results of other studies, “after 12 months, all groups, on average, slowly regained body weight.” Those who lost the most weight at the end of the study, however, shared another common factor: highest attendance at the group counseling sessions. Continued social contact reinforced their efforts. In the battle against obesity, this study showed that “any type of diet, when taught for the purpose of weight loss with enthusiasm and persistence, can be effective.” The key lies in “behavioral factors rather than macronutrient metabolism.”

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But complicating any attempt to lose weight are social factors beyond the control of the individual. Even with support systems, the highly motivated subjects of this latest study could not maintain their weight loss. The editors of the New England Journal of Medicine say that “individual treatment is powerless against an environment that offers so many high-calorie food and labor-saving devices.” Reversing the obesity epidemic, they say, requires broad changes in society. A total-community approach seems to be working in France, where several communities have adopted a program called EPODE (Together Let’s Prevent Childhood Obesity). Town officials, families, schools, medical personnel, restaurant owners, the media and others are working cooperatively to promote good nutrition and exercise. After only five years, the percentage of overweight children in the communities has dropped dramatically. Spain and Belgium are incorporating the program as well, and communities in Greece, Australia and Quebec, Canada, are introducing their own versions. It may be time for us to consider a

BACK TO SCHOOL 2009

similar approach. As the editors of the New England Journal of Medicine say, “The only effective alternative that we have at present for halting the obesity epidemic is large-scale gastric surgery.” Schools, which are vital to reforming attitudes and behavior, can lead the way. They can start by removing all unhealthful foods and drinks from their menus and vending machines. They can ensure that all students receive wholesome, heart-healthy meals as well as continuous instruction about nutrition. And because children no longer choose to spend most of their free time outdoors, biking, skating, playing ball or hopscotch or hide and seek, schools can integrate periods of physical exercise into their daily schedules. Most importantly, schools can screen students for total body mass. No parent wants to hear, “Your baby is fat.” But recognition of a problem early in life is a giant step toward preventing obesity and related health problems in adulthood. ■ Sally Connolly is editor of the Counselor’s Notebook, the official periodical of the Massachusetts School Counselors Association.

A SATURDAY SUCCESS ACADEMY TO IMPROVE NINTH GRADE SUCCESS n July 2008 the Osceola County School District was informed by the U.S. Department of Education that the I-Step Grant proposal for $1,200,000 had been accepted. It was to provide a three-year support project for the purpose of improving ninth grade success. Ultimately, the long-term intent is to improve graduation rates. At the national level, and at the local level in Osceola county, it has become increasingly evident that change was needed in order to improve ninth grade success and the graduation rate. Osceola County has a rapidly increasing Hispanic student population. Some national research rates the Hispanic graduation rate below 60 percent. The graduation rate in Osceola County is at 67 percent. This project provides for five additional counselors to work with at-risk eighthand ninth-grade students. In this first year of the grant, the majority of the time will be spent with eighth graders. During the second and third year of the grant these counselors will work with both eighth- and ninth-grade students. The goal of the grant is to improve eighth- and ninth-grade retention rates by 25 percent. To achieve this goal, systemic changes will need to occur at both the middle school and the high school level. One of the initiatives intended to improve ninth-grade retention has been a Saturday Success Academy was written into the grant because a similar program was an important part of the Equity 2000 project that was sponsored by the College Board. The theory behind the Saturday Academy is that, in many instances, students and parents do not understand postsecondary requirements, the offerings (both academic and extracurricular) or the support systems that are in place. A parent or a significant adult was expected to attend the first and the fourth Saturday Program. The first three Saturdays would be held at the zoned school with the final session being held at the local community college.

There was no standardized program required at each school, but there were several expectations that were to be met at every site. The following list summarizes activities that were offered at all four sites. ■ All students and parents reviewed the Parent Internet Viewer to check current grades and assignments. ■ All students and parents were given a school tour led by current high school students. ■ All sites were offered academic enrichment activities by current high school teachers. ■ All sites explained elective offerings in detail and one site required students to rotate through every technical offering. ■ All schools provided orientations to athletics, performing arts and club offerings. There were several very revealing quotes that need to be shared. ■ From an assistant principal: “How can we do this for all 600 of our incoming ninth graders?” ■ From a longtime school observer: “These students well know more about school opportunities than most 10th and 11th graders.” ■ From a parent whose other son will be a senior, as she was taking the school tour, said: “I have had a son here at this school for two years and I have only seen the football stadium and the guidance office…what wonderful opportunities.” One of the really surprising aspects about experiencing the Saturday Academies was the change in attitudes by the different publics. For instance, at first school administration were doubtful about continued participation for four weeks. They worried that teachers would not want tp participate on a Saturday morning and that kids would not like it. The goal of this specific initiative is to create a positive and meaningful event for students and parents that would require

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very little funding in order for it to be replicated as an orientation event at each high school. The big surprise that was encountered involved teacher attitudes. Teachers, coaches, club sponsors, etc., were willing to participate without any remuneration. Funding for staff salaries was available during this first year due to the availabilities of the grant dollars. Each of the four I-Step counselors had the responsibility for recruiting at-risk students and parents for the initiative. Because this was a brand-new initiative, the recruiting phase was often a one-onone recruitment with student and parent. To provide greater insight into what occurred at these sites, four counselors provided a summary.

SATURDAY SUCCESS ACADEMY As written by Melissa Cooper As an ISTEP counselor, one of the most challenging aspects of our position is working collaboratively with schools. We visit five very different schools one day per week. The limited amount of time spent with each school can negatively affect working together. While creating and working on the Saturday Success Academy project with Poinciana High School, I found that collaboration and support came without question. It is amazing what can be done when people work together toward a goal. Our goal in this adventure was allowing incoming ninth grade at-risk students to get a hands on intimate view at what they will experience in high school and begin making connections with teachers, staff and other students. Day one was an informational session and campus tour, day two was an academic focus, day three involved vocational programs and day four was a wrap-up and focused on the future at Valencia Community College. I was impressed by the willingness by everyone to participate in this event. The principal and assistant principal attended every session at Poinciana High School. Deans, athletics,

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ROTC, cheerleading, drama and guidance counselors were actively involved in the process. I had 10 teachers volunteer to participate and more than 30 student volunteers give their time, energy and encouragement to these 26 students. The schedules were full and informative, fun activities were planned and the students enjoyed each day. I don’t think it could have run more perfectly. Without question, the relationships that were developed these four Saturdays will help these students feel a connection to the school, the staff and to one another. I personally witnessed friendships being formed, passion for learning growing within and a budding excitement about the experiences that await them at Poinciana High School. I was continually asked questions like, “When can we do this again?” or “How could we make this

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program for everyone?” or “I wish there was something like this when I was in ninth grade.” This experience helped me realize that unless our students feel connected to the high school and feel that they have purpose and a place there, little work gets done. I look forward to seeing what these students will accomplish next year. We planted seeds, and I cannot wait to see how big they grow.

SATURDAY SUCCESS ACADEMY As written by Debbie Ingrassia Ms. Camp, our Teacher of the Year, and physical science teacher had a fun and academic lessons in her science room. The eighth graders were allowed to perform a scientific experiment with an advanced hand held computer measuring device. They could test the tempera-

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ture of any two objects and had to record their data. She also discussed the importance of maintaining grades and how to pass the science classes. Ms. Bell, an English teacher, had a wonderful lesson that was academic and geared toward social skills for new high school students. They read along while a song was being played that was about finding your path and acceptance of yourself. She also had poetry and discussed each line and the students had to say what each sentence meant line–byline. She was amazing in describing her experiences and feelings from middle school throughout high school. The room was silent as each student listened to her personal story. The students also learned more about making “right choices” for yourself and to be accepting of who you are regardless of peer pressure.

Ms. Peterson, a social worker, did a wonderful and creative lesson that asked the question, “What are your dreams and goals?” The students began to realize they have dreams but need to complete short-term goals to reach their dreams. Ms. Hart, our district counselor, had a superb lesson with a timeline that brought about bonding of these students from different schools and backgrounds. It helped them to realize everyone including the adults in the room have lived in different places and had to adapt to change with positive and some negatives along the way. Also, it was amazing to see each student talk in front of each other and share their personal stories. Overall, these students have absorbed knowledge that will help them feel more comfortable and less stressed with all their “new” high school experiences to come.

SATURDAY SUCCESS ACADEMY As written by Karen Leininger The Saturday Success Academy at Liberty High School was an incredibly rewarding experience. Twenty-six students were served, with 20 students attending three or more sessions and more than half attending all four sessions. I was continually impressed by the enthusiastic staff and student presentations each week, including but not limited to: the academic enrichment activities facilitated by our ninth grade teachers, athletics, ROTC, cheerleaders, band, chorus, drama, dance team, robotics club, NHS, TV Production and many more. I truly believe that these eighth graders are better equipped for post-secondary success as a result of the things they learned and the relationships they built in this program. They have made valuable connections to Liberty High School that will inspire them to invest in their future there. One hundred percent of the students stated that they feel more prepared for high school as a result of the program, and that they would recommend the program to other students. Several of them stated that they realize now how

important academic success in their freshman year is. Overall, the Saturday Success Academy was a positive experience, and I learned a great deal about leadership, delegating and efficiency. I can’t wait for next year – it’s going to get better and better.

SATURDAY SUCCESS ACADEMY As written by Michele Reed Each week, I was impressed by the dedication and support of the staff members and administration at Harmony High School. Everyone pitched in and did their part without even expecting compensation for their extra work. We had staff members from many electives and academic subjects, as well as counselors and coaches come to speak to students about courses to take, clubs, extracurricular activities and sports. Presentations were very interactive and the students thoroughly enjoyed themselves during the various activities. Upperclassmen

were recruited as mentors and gave individual tours to the incoming freshmen. I feel that we offered a comprehensive program that touched on all that Harmony High School has to offer. This initiative exceeded all expectations. Students parents and school staff have all been very enthusiastic about the Saturday Success Academy. In this first year, we wanted to limit participation to no more than 30 students from each high school site. Actually, we have had more than 120 different student participants for the fourweek program. Total participation was nearly 200 persons. The student persistence rate has been outstanding throughout the four-week program. The results of the parent survey is shown below. The attitudes expressed in the survey exceeded all expectations. ■ Jim MacGregor is the I-Step Project lead counselor in Osceola County. He can be reached at macgregj@osceola.k12.fl.us.

I-STEP PARENT SURVEY Student Success Academy • Final Session, May 16, 2009 Strongly agree

Agree

Total agree

Neutral

Disagree

I have noticed a positive change in my child’s attitude toward school since attending the success academy.

24.7%

I belive my child is excited about attending high school due to the success academy.

43.8%

I believe my child is better informed and prepared to go to high school because of attending the program.

65.7%

I see a diffrence in my child’s attitude/behavior at home since attending the academy.

28.7%

I would recommend this program to other parents and students.

78.0%

Survey question

Noteworthy items 1. 73 parent survey forms were collected. 2. 69 students signed at the registration desk. 3. 5 of the 73 parent respondents used the Spanish survey questions. 4. The auditorium at Valencia seats 200. Total estimated attendance was 180.

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VICE PRESIDENT’S VIEW: ELEMENTARY LEVEL BY JONI SHOOK

hope you have had a wonderful summer and are ready to roll up your sleeves for the new school year! As the new elementary level vice president, I am proud and honored to represent elementary counselors on the FSCA Governing Board. I have been a school counselor for 28 years, and spent the first 20 years as an elementary school counselor in Duval County. Currently I am at the district level, and my primary responsibilities are to support and advocate for elementary counselors in our district. A new school year always generates a lot of enthusiasm and excitement, doesn’t it? As you reflect on last year, you may be thinking about different ways to deliver and improve your school counseling services. I hope you have collected some data that will help you determine what programs or services made a dif-

I encourage each of you to continue to grow professionally so you can provide a comprehensive, data-driven school counseling program. ference for your students in their academic, career and personal development. I encourage each of you to continue to grow professionally so you can provide a comprehensive, data-driven school counseling program. A great opportunity is just around the corner – the annual FSCA conference is Oct. 29–31, 2009, in Orlando. I am co-chair of

VICE PRESIDENT’S VIEW: MIDDLE SCHOOL LEVEL BY LAURIE FEDENKO

the proposal selection committee for the conference, and I am pleased to say we have an outstanding variety of content sessions selected for every level. As I’m sure is true for many of you, we have had a difficult budget process this spring and summer in our district, and have worked hard to advocate for school counseling programs to continue and not be reduced or cut in school budgets. This may be a challenging year for counselors as a result of budget decisions. Let’s continue to grow our professional organization so that, through a strong membership, FSCA can continue to expand the image and influence of school counselors. ■ Joni Shook is the elementary level vice president. She can be reached at shookj@duvalschools.org.

FSCA NOW ON TWITTER http://twitter.com/myFSCA

am pleased to be your new middle school level vice president. I’ve been a school counselor for 22 years in Pinellas County. Currently, my position is at Tarpon Springs Middle School. I appreciate the opportunity to represent you as an officer in FSCA. My goals for the next two years include: 1. Greater networking opportunities for school counselors through the promotion of attendance at our annual FSCA convention. We must professionally involve ourselves with each other through attendance at convention. Taking time for professional development is not a luxury; it is a cornerstone from which we gain encouragement and support from other professionals. Make a yearly commitment to yourself to recharge,

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both personally and professionally. See you at convention this October. 2. Facilitation and promotion of an online, confidential FSCA forum whereby counselors may post concerns anonymously. In this manner, we can support each other as we face ethical and moral concerns in the workplace. As your middle school level representative, I hope to present your concerns, areas of interest and training needs in a responsible and timely manner. We learn much from each other; I hope to learn much from you during the next two years. ■ Laurie Fedenko, Ed.S., is the middle school level vice president. She can be reached at fedenkol@pcsb.org.

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VICE PRESIDENT’S VIEW: SECONDARY LEVEL BY CHRISTOPHER B. SMITH

h, the beginning of a new school year. What a sight as high school counselors run in every direction, working on schedules, returning phone calls, registering new students all in the effort to get school open with as few glitches as possible. As you are working hard imagine the first day of classes without your dedication, without all of those scheduling conflicts resolved, without correct teacher rosters, without you – the high school counselor! But our work is only one part of a larger administrative team that works to help students achieve their goals and dreams every day of the school year. As I write this, I am struck by research just published by the College Board’s National Center for School Counseling Advocacy (May 2009) supported by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) and the National Association of Secondary School Principals. The research, recounted in “Finding a Way: Practical Examples of How an Effective Principal-Counselor Relationship Can Lead to Success for All Students,” highlights 10 school counselor-principal teams around the country (including Florida) and yields solid advice for us as we start the new school year and can start some new habits and relationships. As you begin this year, think about taking the time to enhance your relationship with your principal. While results indicated that principals and counselors tended to agree about the issues they face, “in general, principals have a much more positive view of their relationships with the counselors than counselors have of their relationships with the principals.” All were formed in the face of the shared goal of student success. I challenge you to take another look at your relationship with your principal and make a resolution to improve or enhance it this year. The successful relationships were built based on a shared goal of student success and were both old and new. A common thread was a principal-leader who is strong enough to set boundaries and trust counselors to do their part by valuing the skills and expertise of the school coun-

selor. School counselors often built that respect and trust by respecting the principal enough to be honest about what principals needed to know and demonstrate selected challenges with data. School counselors focused on important issues worth taking the principal’s time and defined them in terms of student success or the barriers to that success. All parties understood that to maximize student success they had to be willing to change their relationship or approach if necessary. At the end of the report (found at www.schoolcounselor.org/files/findway.pdf ) there is a checklist that you and your principal can use to forge a new way of working together that benefits all. Make this your new [school] year’s resolution and go back to school with a new energy to fuel this new relationship. To continue to nurture and grow that relationship you will need to keep building your skills and replenish your professional self. What a better way than by joining your colleagues at The Florida School Counselor Association’s Second Annual Convention

“School Counselors: Building Futures, Changing Lives.” We will be convening Oct. 29–31, 2009, at the Renaissance Orlando Resort at SeaWorld. We have worked diligently to assure you a high powered, energizing and productive schedule with more than 50 quality professional development opportunities that include current and past presidents of The American School Counselor Association (ASCA). Additional workshops before and after the convention provide a more in-depth approach to professional development led by leaders in their respective fields. Districts are taking different approaches to providing professional development in these budget stretched times but FSCA remains a steady professional resource to support the success of our members every day so they can support the success of students. ■ Christopher B. Smith is the secondary level vice president and convention coordinator. He can be reached at chrissmith0529@gmail.com.

THE NEW FSCA FORUM This site is a private meeting place that provides members of the Florida School Counselor Association with a shared calendar, discussion forums, member profiles, photo gallery, file storage and more. We encourage you to upload your photo, complete your profile and participate. The discussion boards now include the following areas and continue to grow: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Announcements General Discussions Headlines & Links Discussions Positions Available/Wanted Response to Intervention/Instruction eNews Updates Grants

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National Certification FSCA Convention Connections Research and Survey Participation Requests

http://fla-schoolcounselor.groupsite.com/ main/summary

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PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE BY SUSAN GERTEL

very year, just after the school year ends and I feel as if I have just had my best year ever, I attend the annual conference of the American School Counselor Association (ASCA). The ASCA conference provides me opportunities to develop new skills and to grow as a professional, an ethical obligation I have as a school counselor. The ASCA Code of Ethics for School Counselors (D.2.E.1.c) requires school counselors continuously to develop as professionals. This year, as in past years, I found there are some skills I should develop to meet my students’ needs better. Some of the skills I have determined I need to work on this year connect to my wish to align the comprehensive counseling program offered at my school with the ASCA National Model. When school starts, many of us will be returning to the school where we have practiced for years, with pretty much the same students, but perhaps we should not to be doing business the same way. The ASCA National Model has been around for six years, and most of us are doing the activities that constitute the elements of the delivery component of the model. The classroom guidance curriculum we present, the small groups we facilitate, and the individual sessions we have with our students are a major part of the model. How do we kick our programs up a notch? The key to garnering administrative support for improving our programs is tied to one of the skills many of us need to develop – data analysis of our efforts or accountability. How are our students different because of what we do every day? At the ASCA conference, I attended a session by Judy Bowers, one of the authors of the ASCA National Model, and Beverly Elliott. They presented “Seven Tips for Institutionalizing the ASCA National Model program.” Just as we often tell our students that major changes do not happen overnight, Bowers reminded us we need to remem-

Elliott challenged us to make an action plan and to select one or two of these research-based tips to concentrate on this year. ber this as well. Elliott challenged us to make an action plan and to select one or two of these research-based tips to concentrate on this year. The seven tips for institutionalizing the ASCA National Model are: 1. Collaboration with faculty members to build links between the new innovation and the classroom instruction. 2. Commitment of top administrators, which gives programs a better chance of survival. 3. Development of a long range plan for the program implementation. 4. Incorporation of the program objectives with the school’s mission. 5. Evidence of community support for the program.

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6. Development of program accountability tools. 7. Development of a public relations plan. (Taken from the presentation handout at ASCA 2009 in Dallas, Texas, details on these tips can be found in the ASCA National Model Handbook pages 2-4.) Two of Bowers and Elliott’s tips will be my focus for professional growth this year. The first is the need to develop some support from our colleagues in the classroom. Collaborating with a reading teacher, I will be in her classroom once a week working with the students on areas of need we identify the first week of school. Because I attended this session, I am going to expand my efforts to include a core curriculum (English) teacher for our ninth graders as well. The second of the tips I will implement is the development of accountability tools for our program. Although my colleagues and I know what we are doing in the classrooms and with small groups is affecting our students, gaining administrative support for explaining the program is easier when we can show the difference with charts or graphs (data). Part of the conference package attendees receive is the July/August issue of the American School Counselor Association magazine, ASCA School Counselor. The issue we received this year focuses on a number of ways each of us can develop in the profession. Whether you are beginning a doctoral program, implementing the ASCA National Model counseling curriculum, planning to attend the FSCA convention or professional development offerings this year, or considering a further certification such as NBCC or NBPTS, I applaud you for pursuing an avenue of professional growth that will help you meet your students’ needs in an exciting and innovative way for the 2009–10 school year. ■ Susan Gertel is the past-president of FSCA.

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REGION REPORTS

REGION 3 WHERE ARE WE COMING FROM? WHERE ARE WE GOING?

We need to renew efforts this year to make sure our students, parents, school

What a roller coaster this past year has been. A budget crisis like no other that put many school counselor positions on the potential chopping block, and it put counselors in competition with other areas such as art, music and physical education for limited funds from a very small pot of money. Fortunately, in Duval, we have a superintendent and school board who advocate for school counselors. They see the value of what we can do and refused to cut the funding level that supplements so many of our elementary school counselor positions. While we originally thought we would lose a number of positions county-wide, we have seen schools adding back and creating new positions as stimulus funds free up other monies. While we have talked about “selling” ourselves and our guidance programs for a number of years, we need to renew efforts this year to make sure our students, parents, school staffs, school boards and the general public are aware of the value of a comprehensive school counseling program. We need to work with our stakeholders to make sure we are meeting their needs and we need to share our efforts and success at every opportunity: faculty meetings, parent nights, PTSA meetings, board meetings and any media event we can create or include ourselves into. Be active in your local and state professional organizations. Network with others and share your ideas with others through meetings, FSCA blogs and your local school counseling programs. We can’t sit back and wait for others to notice how we shine – we need to polish up our star qualities and up the wattage. Nan Worsowicz is the Region 3 vice president. She can be reached at worsowiczn@duvalschools.org.

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staffs, school boards and the general public are aware of the value of a comprehensive school counseling program.

REGION 4 I have always loved the start of a new school year. I still enjoy the wood fragrance of finely sharpened pencils, the click of a notebook being filled with blank canvases of lined paper, even the butterflies in my stomach as I let go of summer. What I love best, though, is the clean slate we all have as we anxiously meet the unexpected. As we greet our students with their eager smiles and anticipation of a new beginning, we should consider our own preparedness to meet the myriad challenges that we will carry like a heavy backpack as the year progresses. As school counselors, we are helpers. With that comes the task of knowing when and how to help the many stakeholders of our school communities. Our services are far-reaching and extend well beyond the perimeters of our buildings. For many of us, particularly in elementary and perhaps in our smaller districts throughout the state, we are the “lone soldier.” This can be isolating at best, but whether or not we share our offices with colleagues, each of us needs a viable support system to keep us moving forward. So, where will you turn as you prepare to help?

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Personally, I have found unparallel support in my professional associations. At the district level, I am a member and past-president of the Pinellas Professional School Counselors Association. Now, I come to you as the Region 4 vice president of FSCA. Beyond these memberships and offices, what has been most valuable to me is the friendly, relevant and professional validation I have experienced through these networks. I continue to grow as a counselor and leader in my school because of the many professional development opportunities they have provided, from response to intervention to understanding relational aggression among girls. With each meeting I attend, each workshop I take, each colleague I talk to, each convention I attend, I come away feeling stronger, better prepared, less isolated and more empowered to do the difficult, but most rewarding work of the school counselor. Please join us, join us as we continue to develop our professionalism and leadership as an integral part of the school community. While your membership is important, as there is strength in numbers, even more important is your time and talent to help further the vision of the FSCA. In addition, continue to cultivate and strengthen your district organizations. The more we engage in helping ourselves and each other, the more viable we become. Finally, rely on me as your liaison to the executive board of the FSCA. Share your ideas, concerns, needs and opinions. Let me know how I can be of service to you as you continually prepare yourselves to assist the children and families in your communities. I can be reached anytime at (727) 485-7992 or echristu@tampabay.rr.com. I look forward to meeting and working with each district in our region and hope to see you at convention in October. Happy new (school) year. Eva Christu is the Region 4 vice president. She can be reached at echristu@tampabay.rr.com.

FSCA CHAPTERS UPDATE

FIRST COAST COUNSELING ASSOCIATION The 2008–2009 was a very productive year for First Coast Counseling Association. Our organization provided two professional development workshops, a parent workshop, a holiday social to strengthen the collaborative relationships between school counselors and principals and a spring dinner to recognize a school counselor who is responsible for innovations in guidance and counseling programs to support the academic, career and personal development of all students, demonstrates leadership and performs outstanding service to the school and community. We were excited about the opportunity to increase scholarship dollars and awardedt three $600 scholarships and one $250 campership award. We were also thrilled to recognize the students and our counselor at the Duval County Public School Board meeting on June 8th. This gave us the opportunity to have the board and community recognize the efforts of our professional organization and be acquainted with a wonderful counselor in our profession. The number of school counselors participating in our evening professional workshops did not meet the goals set by the board. Our efforts included sending personal invitations in the mail, multiple e-mail invites, door prizes and incentives. The board developed a survey to distribute with the 2009–2010 application. The

outgoing board suggests increasing the opportunities to deliver professional information in fun and relaxing environments for 2009–2010. We are also excited about our incoming board. The following school counselors make up the 2009–2010 FCCA Board: Vera Bussey, president, Andrew Jackson High School; Libby Curran, president -elect, Ed White High School, Sidell Kearns, secretary, Andrew Jackson High School; Khristi Keefe, treasurer, District office; Carmen Carraballo, historian, Fletcher HS; Mahalia Bowman, graduate student, UNF; and Wendy Dunlap, pastpresident, District office.

BECOME A FSCA CHAPTER Any group of association members residing or working within a particular area or region may apply for a chapter charter, provided that the group consists of at least 10 FSCA members. Benefits 1. FSCA supports its chapters and promotes chapter membership and activities. 2. FSCA includes state chapter delegates to the Delegate Assembly in accordance with Article IV, Delegate Assembly, of the FSCA By-Laws. 3. FSCA promotes chapter leadership communication through its website and listserv for chapter presidents, past-presidents, and presidents-elect. 4. FSCA chapter leadership may participate in any leadership development

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activities and may received reduced fees at such workshops or conferences. 5. FSCA provides materials and resources for distribution to chapter members. 6. FSCA leaders provide professional development, keynote addresses and other presentations at local conferences, workshops or meetings at cost. 7. Chapters may host FSCA’s annual conference, LDI or other meetings. Groups that desire to form a chapter must submit a Chapter Charter application to the Governing Board. An application considered by the Governing Board shall, upon acceptance, be submitted to the Delegate Assembly for final approval. The FSCA Governing Board must approve the applicant’s Bylaws, or other similar governance document, and shall make a recommendation concerning them to the Delegate Assembly. Such bylaws or other similar document of a Chapter must not be in conflict with the FSCA bylaws and any formal relationship mutually developed between the applicant and any other school counseling association or branch. Chapter Charters are granted to local or regional school counselor associations and FSCA will charter no more than one school counselor association per county or district. Download an application to become a FSCA Chapter by visiting www.fla-schoolcounselor.org/ chapters/. ■

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FSCA BENEFITS AND SERVICES

hen you join FSCA your membership is good for one year from your date of enrollment. Our enrollment is not based on the school calendar year.

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Comprehensive Newsletter. The Florida School Counselor, published five times per year (including a special “back to school” issue), is a PDF download with many advantages: ■ Easier access to each issue. ■ Searchable content. ■ Important resources and other content linked to Web site. ■ Unhindered space limitations (i.e., we can offer more valuable content without worrying about delivery costs). FSCA Forum. The FSCA Forum site is a meeting place that provides Florida school counselor with a shared calendar, discussion forums, member profiles, photo gallery, file storage and more. We encourage you to upload

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your photo, complete your profile and participate! Legislative Advocacy. From our Lobbyist in Tallahassee to our Legislative Web page, FSCA helps inform our legislators about issues and directions for student success. Representation. FSCA also represents you at the state and national Delegate Assemblies. Partnerships. Because no one organization can do it alone, FSCA leaders continue to partner with other organizations, industries and agencies to further our mutual interests in students and families. News Blog. Frequently updated, the News Blog provides vital information to keep you informed about school counseling related issues. Professional Development. As everyone knows, it’s important to participate in regular, certified professional development opportunities. FSCA partners with other organizations, uni-

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versities and nationally recognized trainers to offer members training in areas such as ethics, career counseling and more. Awards. FSCA recognizes its best school counselors, administrators, advocates and other supporters who make a difference among kids and families. Resource Center. The FSCA resource center (members only) houses important content such as professional development resources (e.g., handouts from our convention and other institutes), promotional materials and much more. Twitter. Follow FSCA on Twitter for up-to-the minute announcements, resources and valuable information. Web site. The FSCA is comprehensive and still growing. The purpose of the FSCA Web site is to provide support for all of FSCA’s goals and to make it easy for Florida school counselors to stay informed, collaborate and network. ■