Message from the President
C
an you believe that it is already November? Doesn’t it seem like only yesterday that we were looking forward to the year ahead and all that we might accomplish? And now Thanksgiving is almost here, and the school year is almost a third over. First, I would like to recognize Helen O’Donnell and her committee for an outstanding fall conference in Boxborough. We are so fortunate to be able to come together as an organization not only once a year, but twice, to learn, network, and move forward. I hope that you were able to take back what you learned at the con-
JENNIFER McGUIRE MASCA President ference and have started implementation in your school building and district. Additional kudos to Jan Tkaczyk for her
Mission of MASCA The mission of MASCA is to advocate for school counselors in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts by providing leadership, collaboration, and professional development.
4
work with the exhibitors. This fall has been busy for the Governing Board. Last month, we met again in Bourne to continue our summer work on the MASCA strategic plan, and we continue to strive to keep MASCA moving forward as an organization. As always, I encourage you to get involved with a committee. Help your school counselor association. There is something for everyone. November happens to be Career Development Month. As you probably know, I am passionate about this topic. I believe that helping students discover their own passion lies at the core of what we
Career planning is an integral part of the MA Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs. do as school counselors. We have the opportunity (and obligation) to ensure that students are aware of all the pathways out there for them and that students are not limited in their career choices because of either perceived or real barriers. A strong, comprehensive school counseling program provides students with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions: about their career aspirations, non-traditional career paths, and setting goals. Students, especially, need to know what they need to do to be ready for the next step in their career path, whether that is postsecondary education or another route. Career planning can and should begin early in one’s education. Remember: “career” is not the opposite of “college.” All students benefit from career planning. During the past year, I have had the pleasure of being part of the Career Plan Advisory Committee to the MA Certificate of Occupational Proficiency. Career planning, while not mandated in all schools, is a great way to assist students in making meaning out of their education and to connect what they are doing in school to their future. Career planning, remember, aligns with the MA Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs. ■ COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK
