Counselor's Notebook, June 2010 by Sally Ann Connolly

MASCA

MASSACHUSETTS SCHOOL COUNSELORS ASSOCIATION

VOL. 46, NO. 10

JUNE 2010

How Did You Do This Year?

MASCA sets 2010-2011 agenda

By CHRISTINE EVANS MASCA President

CHRISTINE EVANS

elieve it or not, summer is almost here. The 2009-2010 school year is winding down, and our thoughts have turned from graduating seniors to working on academic and career planning with our underclassmen. We will be reviewing the progress and gains they made this year, and as we assess areas of strength and weakness, we help our students formulate an answer to the essential question, “How did you do this year?” Some of our students will be pleased with their final analysis of the year, and others will be disappointed, as they discover the need to plan for summer school. In either case, we can use this time to help them learn more about themselves, to think about what they want to do, and to set goals to move them to achieve what they want. Let’s use this time to review our progress, too, both personally and professionally. We have hopes and dreams, goals for the year. The end of the school year is the perfect time to ask “How did I do this year?” Did you accomplish all you wanted? Did you go someplace you always wanted to go? Are you pleased with your final analysis of the year? If not, what can you do differently next time out?

The beauty of the end of the year is that it signifies a new beginning, and that means a new opportunity to start over and form a new plan. Set new goals, reach for new heights. The important thing is to keep moving in the direction of your dreams. In some ways, for me this June is typical. I am involved in the usual end of the year tasks at work and preparing for a smooth opening to 2010-2011. Yet, in the midst of finishing up at work, this June also brings with it the end of my year as MASCA president.

MASCA: A look back When I evaluate the year from this perspective, the question becomes more about our association. We started the year with a work plan and specific goals. Now that the year is coming to an end, I find myself asking, “How did we do this year?” We can be pleased with what we (continued on page 4)

n the coming year MASCA seeks to share the following position statements with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education: 1. Proposal for MA Model for Comprehensive School Counseling programs adoption. 2. New school counselor evaluation tool. 3. Transformed school counselor job description. 4. Proposal for changes to the current school guidance counselor requirements for licensure. 5. Proposal for changes to the graduate program approval for school guidance counseling. 6. Professional development proposal for school counselors in the lowest performing schools. 7. Suggestions for specifically incorporating school counselors into the state’s second-round Race of the Top application. 8. Proposal for incorporating college (continued on page 11)

SAVE THE DATES! ASCA Conference 2010 Boston • July 3-6, 2010 To register, go to www.schoolcounselor.org Volunteers receive a $25 bookstore certificate and free attendance at the session they monitor. To volunteer, contact Jenn Lisk at ascabostonvolunteer@gmail.com

MASCA Fall Conference Boxborough • October 26, 2010 Details at www.masca.org

COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

MASCA

2009 – 2010 MASCA OFFICERS PRESIDENT CHRISTINE A. EVANS East Bridgewater High School 11 Plymouth Street, East Bridgewater, MA 02333 Tel. 508-378-5851 • Fax 508-378-8236 E-mail: cevans@ebps.net PRESIDENT-ELECT CAROLYN RICHARDS Somerville High School 81 Highland Avenue, Somerville, MA 02143 Tel. 617-625-6600 x 6120 • Fax 617-628-8413 E-mail: crichards@k12.somerville.ma.us PAST PRESIDENT KAREN M. D’AMOUR Manchester Essex Regional High School 36 Lincoln Street, Manchester, MA 01944 Tel. 978-526-7641 • Fax 978-526-2044 E-mail: damourk@mersd.org

June 2010

inside 5

VICE PRESIDENT ELEMENTARY TBA VICE PRESIDENT MIDDLE / JUNIOR HIGH RICHARD WHITE Gateway Regional Middle School 12 Littleville Road, Huntington, MA 01050 E-mail: RWhite@GRSD.org VICE PRESIDENT SECONDARY JENNIFER LISK Medway High School, Medway, MA 02053 E-mail: lisk@medway.k12.ma.us VICE PRESIDENT POSTSECONDARY JAY LEIENDECKER Vice President Enrollment Services, Dean College Tel. 508-541-1509 • Fax 508-541-8726 E-mail: jleiendecker@dean.edu VICE PRESIDENT ADMINISTRATORS RUTH CARRIGAN Whitman-Hanson Regional High School 600 Franklin Street, Whitman, MA 02382 Tel. 781-618-7434 • Fax 781-618-7098 E-mail: carrigan.ruth@whrsd.org VICE PRESIDENT COUNSELOR EDUCATORS THERESA A. COOGAN, Ph.D. Bridgewater State College, Bridgewater, MA 02325 Tel. 508-531-2640 E-mail: theresa.coogan@bridgew.edu VICE PRESIDENT RETIREES RALPH SENNOTT P.O. Box 1391, Westford, MA 01886 Tel. 978-692-8244 E-mail: ralphsennott@hotmail.com EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DONNA M. BROWN Adjunct Professor, UMass Boston P.O. Box 366, 779 Center Street Bryantville, MA 02327 Tel. 781-293-2835 E-mail: dbrownmasca@gmail.com TREASURER TINA KARIDOYANES P.O. Box 1007, Monument Beach, MA 02553 Tel. 508-759-3986 E-mail: tkaridoyanes@gmail.com SECRETARY CARRIE KULICK-CLARK Braintree High School, Braintree, MA 02184 Tel. 781-848-4000 x 2273 E-mail: Jd02375@aol.com MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR DEBORAH CLEMENCE P.O. Box 805, East Dennis, MA 02641 E-mail: DeborahClemence@verizon.net COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK EDITOR SALLY ANN CONNOLLY 19 Bayberry Road, Danvers, MA 01923 Tel. 978-774-8158 • Fax 978-750-8154 E-mail: sallyconnolly@att.net

JUNE 2010

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Touch and Be Touched By Sally Ann Connolly

Media Mania and School Counselors By Donna Brown

Summer Opportunities for Counselors By Ruth Carrigan

MASCA’s Professional Development: Looking Back By Helen O’Donnell

The Counselor’s Role in Moral Education By Karen Walsh Pio

Congratulations, Award Winners! By Celeste Cianfrani

Affiliate News

Published by: Massachusetts School Counselors Association 10 issues per year, September through June. The yearly subscription rate is $30.00. Individual copies are $3.00. Opinions expressed in the articles published herein represent the ideas and/or beliefs of those who write them and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Massachusetts School Counselors Association, Inc. The acceptance of an advertisement for publication does not imply MASCA endorsement of the advertiser’s programs, services, or views expressed. Questions concerning submission of articles, publication deadlines, advertising rates, etc., should be addressed to Sally Ann Connolly, Editor.

www.masca.org

Fisher College hosts NECA counselors

Shown at the April meeting of the Northeast Counselors Association are (from left): Deborah Smith of The Pettengill House, Amesbury Middle School counselor Caitlin Bailey, Fisher College President Thomas McGovern, Fisher College Dean of Admissions Robert Melaragni, and Fisher College Hospitality and Tourism Program Director, Rich Metzger.

EVANS (continued from page 1) accomplished. We can celebrate progress in our efforts in government relations; updated use of technology, with a revised website and the use of computer / teleconferencing; and two successful professional development conferences. Further, we have made the commitment to conduct a serious research study on the MA Model which will guide our next steps. We have made progress in establishing a relationship with the Commissioner of Education, which means we are on our way to having a seat at the table in education reform efforts as well as a voice in statewide decisions that affect our daily work. The Membership Services Committee has conducted research to discover how we can serve our members better. The Graduate Student Liaisons and VP Counselor Educators have partnered on outreach projects. And we have renewed our relationship with the Massachusetts Superintendents Association and Massachusetts Secondary School Administrators Association. The Fiscal Oversight Committee has steered us skillfully through the rough waters of an uncertain economy, providing us with the direction to practice fiscally conservative business measures. Our Governing Board is tackling tough issues in a productive, respectful and efficient manner through the use of policy governance. The summary above indicates how we did, the progress we made, and it also gives direction for where we need to go next. This time last year, I was charged with continuing the excellent work guided by our past president, Karen D’Amour. I am filled with hope and excitement for where we will go under the leadership of our next president, Carolyn Richards, and I am happy to have had the opportunity to represent our membership by serving as president. I wish you a relaxing, rejuvenating summer and a wonderful new beginning in the 2010-2011 school year. ■

For updated information throughout the summer, go to MASCA’s website at www.masca.org 4

COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

Touch and Be Touched By SALLY ANN CONNOLLY MASCA Counselor’s Notebook Editor

he car dealership that services my car is suffering from a surfeit of recall repairs. But this unfortunate development may be having an unplanned, salutary effect. During my recent visits to the dealership, I have observed that they are putting extra effort into customer service. Although my past interactions with the service managers have always been polite and courteous, the entire dealership now seems to be going the extra mile for its customers. In addition to the usual complimentary cup of coffee in a sitting area replete with TV entertainment and wireless connectivity, I have been treated to either a Dunkin’ Donuts gift card or a coupon for free pizza, a free rental car or a courtesy ride to and from the dealership, and the most respectful of interactions. This courtesy seems to extend to its workers as well. While standing at the desk during my last checkout, I overheard a service manager thank a mechanic who was walking by for having detected a customer’s problem with his registration. This expression of recognition cost the manager nothing, but for both the mechanic and me, the words were priceless. Most certainly, the recognition boosted the mechanic’s morale and his motivation to perform well in the future. For me, the expression of congratulation enhanced my confidence in the dealership and how it views its mission. Another interaction at the dealership reinforced for me the importance of personal contact. I had been suffering a great deal of angst due to an unusual and expensive repair, delays in getting the needed parts, wranglings with the insurance company, and my concern that a total replacement rather than a repair was needed. But when the mechanic who had worked on my car stopped by to explain what he had done and why and what it meant for the future, I felt reassured. My car was not just another car on the “reassembly” line. I was not just another cog in the repair cycle. My mechanic had a face, and we had connected. As a result, I left the dealership feeling confiJUNE 2010

dent and satisfied. Behind the wheel of every car, every repair—indeed, every transaction—is a person. In our work as school counselors, we recognize that behind every statistic that describes the dropout rate, the percentage of students continuing on to college, or the incidence of bullying, is a student.

During the MASCA Spring Conference, Dr. Joyce Brown of the Chicago Public Schools pointed out that in order to make a real difference in their lives, students need to be “touched” by the caring actions of others. In our daily work we have an opportunity each and every day to reach out and touch someone. The course of a life may hang in the balance. ■

Media Mania and School Counselors 2010 MA Model Institutes

By DONNA BROWN MASCA Executive Director

Basic and Advanced Institutes Dean College, Franklin

July 14-15, 2010 November 18, 2010 Overnight accommodations available. $395 for 45 MASCA PDPs. Additional fee for graduate credits. Send inquiries to pdchair@masca.org.

DONNA BROWN

ver April vacation, my family ran away from New England to the warmth of Orlando. I took my trusty computer with me, ready to stay tethered to the Internet. The plan was going well until our timeshare owners decided to change Internet servers. Goodbye Wayport; hello AT&T—goodbye Internet for the rest of the week. By the time I got home and back online on Monday, I was buried by zillions of e-mails and uncounted tweets. I took care of the e-mails and then went to another conference over the weekend. Today I started reading tweets, and, wow, had there been a lot of activity! Three of the tweets really piqued my interest, and I thought I would share them with you.

Personal relationships The first tweet was from The New York Times and was entitled “Antisocial Networking?” The author presented some really thought-provoking questions about students’ use of social media. While much has been written about cyberbullying and sexting, few researchers have considered “whether technology may be changing the very nature of kids’ friendships.” According to Jeffrey G. Parker, associate professor of psychology at the University of Alabama, who has been studying children’s friendships since the 1980’s, these worries have “over-shadowed a look into the really nuanced things about the way technology is affecting the closeness properties of friendship.” Are relationships based on texting, Facebook, and instant messaging as supportive as those friendships that develop from face-to-

face interactions? Lori Evans, a psychologist at New York University, has said that because of the constant use of technology, “today’s youths may be missing out on experiences that help them develop empathy, understand emotional nuances and read social cues like facial expressions and body language.” Of great concern, too, is that younger and younger children are using technology and that eventually this may lead to a rewiring of their brains. (http://www.ny times.com/2010/05/02/fashion/02BES T.html?ref=fashion)

Media blackout The second tweet referred me to a study from the University of Maryland, College Park, entitled “A Day Without Media.” Two hundred students were given the following assignment in late February: This week your assignment is to find a 24-hour period during which you can pledge to give up all use of media: no Internet, no newspapers or magazines, no TV, no cell phones, no iPod, no music or movies, etc. And definitely no Facebook. Although you may need to use the Internet for homework or work, try to pick a time when you can go without using it. This should be an interesting experience for you and examining your own dependencies, so really try to give yourself a chance to do the whole 24 hours. You will write a post about your experiences. Feel free to do some outside research on the effects of Internet or cell phone dependence and share those links with your fellow students. If you do NOT make it the full 24 hours, be honest about it. How long did you make it? What happened? What do COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

you think it means about you? In general, reflect on the following questions: What about your day was different in terms of logistics? What about psychological effects? Were you surprised either by how hard or how easy it was? What does your use of media reflect about our society and its use of communication media? If you are tied to media, what about those in our society who are not connected? Is there something they’re missing? Is there something you’re missing out on by being so entrenched in media? The results were fascinating — and frightening. Many of the students were unable to make the 24 hours, while those who did reacted in a wide variety of ways. • Some admitted to being addicted to technology and described the 24 hours as similar to withdrawal. They stated that they could live without TV or newspapers, but not without cell phones and iPods. • A few students found that they were able to pay more attention in class and complete assignments more easily without the distractions of technologies. • Others stated they were bored, bored, BORED! • One girl allowed that she had eaten by herself because she didn’t know how to contact any of her friends. • Cell phones were described as the “Swiss army knife of this generation.” Some students said that they often checked their phones as often as “every few minutes”! • Students complained about the disconnect they felt from their techno world and how relieved they were when the 24 hours ended. This is an incredible look into the world of young adults and how different their world has become. For the report, go to www.withoutmedia.wordpress.com.

many media skills. They are able to upload, download, and remix music, videos, and photos; create and post videos; operate all types of cameras; and participate in social networks. Unfortunately, however, many teachers lack some (or even all) of these skills. And, as a result, they have been slow to recognize the need for formal study of media literacy and the possible applications within the classroom.

A video of an interview with Frank W. Baker and Andrew Smith discussing media literacy is available at http:// curriculum21.ning.com/video/frankbaker-talks-about-media. For an excellent source of lesson plans, refer to the Media Literacy Clearinghouse website. The resources found there are quite diverse and could help you create effective guidance lesson plans: www.frankwbaker.com. ■

Join Donna Brown on Twitter www.twitter.com/MASCAExDr

Media literacy The last tweet dealt with the work of Frank W. Baker, who writes extensively about media literacy and has traced the development of media literacy from Marshall McLuhan in the 1960’s to the present. Baker says that while students are incredible consumers of technology, they have not been taught how to analyze or evaluate it. He cites Marc Prensky, an educational consultant who coined the phrase “digital natives.” Prensky says that students possess JUNE 2010

Summer Opportunities for Counselors By RUTH CARRIGAN MASCA VP Administrators

RUTH CARRIGAN

ith the start of summer around the corner, I hope that you will take some well-deserved time off to rest, relax, and re-group after a busy year. If you’d like to include some college admissions-related professional development this summer, I encourage you to take a look at the special counselor programs

sponsored by colleges. As we often tell our students, there is no better way to get to know a college than to visit the campus and meet with admissions counselors. The following list of colleges offering summer programs was taken from the May 2010 edition of the College Impressions Newsletter, a monthly communication published by Art Mullaney, retired guidance director from Randolph High School. In addition to special information for school counselors, his newsletter includes current and comprehensive lists of college open house programs and special opportunities for students. For details about the programs or information about subscribing to this great resource, contact Art Mullaney at college impr@comcast.net or 781-585-4070. Best wishes for a wonderful summer!

MASCA DIRECTORY OF MASSACHUSETTS SCHOOL COUNSELORS The Directory lists school counselors in K-12 public, private, parochial, and regional and technical high schools. Phone, fax, and e-mail information is included. Each MASCA member will receive one (1) complimentary copy. PLEASE USE THE ORDER FORM BELOW to order more copies. Download the form at www.masca.org or order online and use your credit card.

1-5 copies @ $30.00 each . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No. ____

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5.00 P. O. Processing Fee (per order) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ _________ Make checks payable to: MASCA

TOTAL: . . $ __________

If mailing this form, send to: Ms. Marla Schay, Weston High School, 444 Wellesley St., Weston, MA 02493

Questions? E-mail SchayM@mail.weston.org Your name and contact information: Name: ______________________________________________________________ School District/Business: _______________________________________________ Mailing Address: _____________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________ E-mail Address: ______________________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________________________________________

American University, Washington, D.C., 800-428-4632 Canisius College, Buffalo, NY, 800843-1517 Carlton College, Northfield, MN, 800-995-CARL Champlain College, Burlington, VT, 800-570-5858 Colby-Sawyer College, New London, NH, 800-272-1015 Elmira College, Elmira, NY, 800-935-6472 Elizabethtown College, Elizabethtown, PA, 717-361-1400 Franklin Pierce University, Rindge, NH, 800-437-0048 Hamilton College, Clinton, NY, 800-843-2655 Hartwick College, Oneonta, NY, 888-HARTWICK Hobart-William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY, 800-852-2256 Hood College, Frederick, MD, 800-922-1599 LeMoyne College, Syracuse, NY, 800-333-4733 Maine Maritime Academy, Castine, ME, 800-227-8465 Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, North Adams, MA, 800-696-6252 Regis College, Weston, MA, 866-438-7344 Saint Joseph College, Standish, ME, 800-338-7057 Salve Regina University, Newport, RI, 800-321-7124 St. Martins University, Lacey, WA, 360-438-4590 St. Michael’s College, Colchester, VT, 800-SMC-8000 Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs, NY, 800-867-6007 Suffolk University, Boston, MA, 617-573-8460 Trinity University, Washington, D.C., 800-492-6882 Union College, Schenectady, NY, 888-843-6688 Wagner College, Staten Island, NY, 800-221-1010 Wheelock College, Boston, MA, 617-879-2209 Wittenberg University, Springfield, OH, 877-206-0332 ■ COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

MASCA’s Professional Development: Looking Back By HELEN C. O’DONNELL, Ed.D. MASCA PD and Conference Chair

ASCA’s Professional Development and Conference Committees focus on designing programming to meet the needs of Massachusetts school counselors. What an outstanding year 20092010 has been. ASCA’s Executive Director, Dr. Richard Wong, and ASCA’s President, Dr. Pat Nailor, presented at our conferences to encourage continued implementation of the ASCA National Model and RAMP’ing up our programs and services. This year, recognized national speakers brought their messages and training expertise to conferences and a workshop. Urban initiatives to close the achievement gap, reduce the drop-out rate, and showcase the impact of school counseling programs were modeled when Dr. Carol Dahir and her Springfield colleagues shared the Springfield Story and Dr. Joyce Brown and Jibril Solomon presented the successful Chicago effort with their “12 Touches.” Dr. Trish Hatch’s workshop at Elms College, “Hatching Results,” provided training focused on using data to effect change and move the profession forward. Currently, Maria Paoletti, a graduate student at Fitchburg State College and a MASCA Graduate Student Liaison, is working to develop a professional development section of the MASCA website that will identify Massachusetts graduate level course opportunities available for continued professional development. Check out the progress we are making to bring this information to you. If you have suggestions and more graduate class opportunities to share, please e-mail pdchair@masca.org.

check out the MASCA protocol posted in the PD section of www.masca.org.

A special thank-you Special thanks to the wonderful Conference Committee that worked so diligently to bring their colleagues a quality conference: Dr. Linda Dagradi, Programs; Joe

Fitzgerald, Registrar and Evaluations; Sherry Brass, Kaplan, Hospitality Chair; and Audrey Coonan, Exhibit Chair. Do you want to join these Committee Chairs with planning and committee work next year? Would you like to learn the details of becoming Conference Chair? If so, please e-mail pdchair@masca.org. ■

PDP reminder Don’t forget to complete your Certificates of Attendance/Evidence of Learning Forms from MASCA Conferences and workshops. Using your school district protocol, you can submit them for PDP credit once you have accumulated ten hours of professional development training. It is acceptable to yoke certificates to accumulate ten hours. For MASCA PDPs, please JUNE 2010

The Counselor’s Role in Moral Education By KAREN WALSH PIO South Hadley School District

s noted in Painting the Picture: Massachusetts Model Implementation Guide, part of the school counselor’s role is to help all students to achieve their academic / technical workplace readiness and personal/social potential. Guidance classroom lessons often focus on inventories to help students identify career interests and aptitudes or on portfolio-building exercises to help students focus on achieving graduation requirements. But sometimes, as recent news headlines about school bullying show, the true barriers to student achievement lie within the social or interpersonal arena. These are the most challenging for the school counselor to address. Currently, there is a heightened awareness of these issues as the first Massachusetts Anti-Bullying Law progresses towards implementation in our schools. Before we reach the point of legal mandate, however, we should look at the role of the school and, specifically, the school counselor, in developing tomorrow’s moral citizens. MCAS measures the competence of students in identified core subjects, so that schools can graduate students who are capable of reading, writing, and arithmetic and who are able to take their place as functioning citizens and productive em-

ployees. But MCAS does not measure a student’s moral character, and for educators this has proven to be a slippery slope. I have reviewed news articles and Internet sites and have found the tension played out in the comments of journalists or private individuals who don’t hesitate to post their opinions online about specific educators, whether or not they have a child enrolled in the schools. Does the responsibility for imparting important values lie with the parents or with the school? Who should explain civility and kindness, tolerance for diversity, and a sense of decency or loyalty or honor? Who should hand out consequences when young people blurt out hurtful, rageful invectives towards each other? Should anger management be a required course along with hard science and languages? If the school imposes a moral code upon students, does that intrude upon the right of parents? But what about those parents who don’t assume the responsibility? The school needs to be ready to step in when students come to school showing disrespect for authority, desensitization to violence, and disregard for the feelings of others. One way that a school handles this issue is to have policies and practices in

MASCA PDP SIGNUP FORM I want to sign up for MASCA PDPs. Name: __________________________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ E-mail: _________________________________________________________ Send a check for $25 made payable to MASCA along with your stamped MASCA conferences’ Certificates of Attendance and completed Evidence of Learning Forms documenting AT LEAST 10 HOURS of professional development training to: Helen O’Donnell, Ed.D. • 10 Maplewood Terrace • Hadley, MA 01035

hand to address behavioral expectations and the consequences for violations. But responding to negative actions does not teach students what positive actions look like. As Goldstein, Glick, and Gibbs suggest in Aggression Replacement Training (1998), punitive approaches are temporary solutions because the development of aggressive behavior is a process of learning that derives from complex causes. A punitive approach is simplistic and produces only temporary cessation, not true behavior change. “Morality is and always has been the living human community’s code of compassion,” writes Michael Gurian in The Good Son: Shaping the Moral Development of Our Boys and Young Men (1999). “Moral values are humanity’s insurance policy that compassion will prevail in human interactions . . . . There is no act of human morality that is not based on some vision of compassion.” All students need to understand how to behave compassionately, experience empathy, control their own aggressive impulses, and negotiate problems in a way which is most likely to bring them some level of resolution. If students have not already been educated about the specifics of moral behavior at home, they need to learn it in school. Goldstein, Glick and Gibbs say that aggressive youngsters have many supports and rewards in place for continuing their aggressive behavior and very few for altering it. In many cases, they simply don’t know what else to do instead of what they are doing. As school counselors, we can show them the alternatives. Students who are educated in morality understand the cruelty of bullying behavior and the unfairness of vandalism and theft as well as the rationale behind the rules that direct our actions. With such knowledge they have the fundamentals needed to create a happy life and a stable society. School counselors have the training and expertise needed to take the lead in character education. We can help to locate curricula, develop effective programs, and assist in classroom lessons. Character development is an important educational goal; and by choice or default, it presents a challenge for all school counselors. ■ COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

ED’S VIEWS

ED BRYANT, NCC MASCA Life Trustee

bers of the former Merrimack Valley Guidance Association would visit the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, CT. In 1979 we combined the MVGA with the NSGA to form a very active Northeast Counselors Association. Did you ever finish a rough day at the guidance office and feel like ripping off your car’s “Have a Happy Day” bumper sticker? Slow down. Smile. And enjoy the spring. ■

AGENDA (continued from page 1) and career readiness program of study in the Massachusetts High School Program of Studies (MassCore). 9. Proposal for how school counselors can assist DESE in implementing aspects of the bullying legislation. 10. Proposal for school administrators and directors of guidance when hiring school counselors to seek those with specific training in college admission counseling to help improve our going to college rates. ■

ongratulations to the members of the MASCA Governing Board for a well-run, informative meeting on April 11 at the Crown Plaza in Danvers. Several topics were discussed, including a wellprepared report from Bob Bardwell. An attempt to table the proposals in his presentation was defeated. Here are some of the items on which he said MASCA should take a stand: • School counseling evaluations • Transforming hiring practices • Support for Level 4 schools and high schools with low college enrollment • College and career readiness program of study • School guidance counselor licensure for the 21st Century • Highly qualified school guidance counselors as leaders The Governing Board will review these ideas before a final vote is taken on each. Stay tuned. Last month I described pornography as an addiction, similar to cocaine addiction. The media recently reported a scandal by some staffers at the Security Exchange Commission in relation to watching pornography at taxpayers’ expense. Some even watched it five-eight hours per day. Does this occur at other levels of government as well? On a lighter note. John Gould and Mary Westcott, do you remember when North Shore Guidance Directors used to hold an old-fashioned New England clambake at the last meeting of the year? We would cook lobster, steamed clams, clam chowder, and corn. Members brought appetizers and delicious desserts. We again thank Jim McNeilly and his wife for the use of their yard, which bordered a golf course. On another historic note. A few mem-

JUNE 2010

Congratulations, Award Winners! By CELESTE CIANFRANI MASCA Awards & Publicity Committee Chair

s the MASCA Awards and Publicity Committee Chair, I had the great honor of presenting the annual awards at the spring conference in Danvers. The award recipients were a diverse group of exceptional professionals who exemplify excellence and contribute meaningfully to our profession. We had a significant increase in the number of nominations this year in each of the award categories. I found it encouraging to see the amount of recognition given to our deserving colleagues, and I sincerely congratulate all of the award nominees. The task of selecting winners was very challenging for the Awards Committee, and I want to thank each member of the committee for the time and effort they put into this delicate process. Congratulations to the following recipients.

wealth. He has served MASCA in many leadership capacities, including that of president and chair of the Government Relations Committee. His development of the Graduate Student Liaison and Emerging Leaders positions created a new leadership model for MASCA. Bob’s articles on education, college access, and student advising have appeared in local as well as national publications. And his expertise and service to students, schools, professional organizations, and the community have earned him the recognition of colleagues on the local, state, and national levels. Recently, Bob served as president of the New England Association of College Admission Counselors (NEACAC). Currently, he serves as ASCA Vice President for Secondary Education, and he is a candidate for the presidency of ASCA.

A strong proponent of the MA Model, Paul believes in advocacy, collaboration, systemic change, and leadership. His newly implemented guidance curriculum has led to increases in both the graduation rate and number of students getting into college. In addition, decision making in the school is now data driven, and students make better connections with guidance and other school personnel. Paul believes that his counseling staff should play an integral role in the life of the school. The services they offer, he believes, are essential for student success both during and after high school.

Leadership Award

Administrator of the Year Counselor of the Year

SUSAN SCHOENBERGER Director of School Counseling Agawam Public Schools

PAUL VIEIRA ROBERT BARDWELL Director of Guidance and Student Support Services Monson High School Bob is the quintessential school counselor. His tireless advocacy is driven by a determination to help each student succeed. On a daily basis he demonstrates the effectiveness of school counselors; his students leave his office feeling more self-confident knowing that Bob believes in them. Bob’s visionary leadership and dedication have strengthened the professional status of school counselors, helping to make MASCA a vital force in the education of students across the Common-

Principal East Bridgewater High School Paul Vieira has served as the principal of East Bridgewater High School for four years. He has a firm grasp on how school counselors can make a positive difference in his school, and he demonstrates his understanding by the support and respect he shows for his team of school counselors. When Paul became principal, he weighed the strengths and weaknesses of the programs in existence, and he identified the changes and improvements needed to help students succeed. One of the changes he initiated was the introduction of a guidance director, a position that had not been filled in almost forty years.

Susan has been the director of school counseling for Agawam Public Schools for less than three years, but in that short time, she has made an undeniable mark on the quality of school counseling services. Her vision and dedication have greatly improved working relationships. While keeping the best interest of students at the forefront, she has moved the high school in a positive direction. As a result of her efforts, the Agawam Public School District recently earned the American School Counselor Association RAMP Award. This award signifies that a school system has fully implemented the Model and is committed to delivering a comprehensive, data-driven school counseling program. Agawam was the first school district in the Commonwealth to receive this prestigious designation. COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

Leadership Award LINDA VAUGHAN Director of Guidance Rockport High School Linda has been working in secondary school systems for twenty years, and for the past two years she has served as president of the North Shore Guidance Directors Association. As director of guidance at Rockport High School, she has added to the department’s repertoire of service. She instituted a more comprehensive orientation program for eighthgraders in their transition to high school as well as a more thorough, college-planning program for juniors. In addition, she implemented a career- and college-planning course for sophomores. Linda enjoys the challenge of identifying areas of weakness, developing programs to implement change, and working to improve the school community. She continually demands the best from herself and from everyone around her.

Special Award STEVE FITZGERALD Universal Technical Institute This award honors an individual who has made a contribution of unusual significance that substantially affects the guidance and counseling profession. Steve has an unparalleled enthusiasm and passion for his job, which he demonstrates in the way he guides young people with care and honesty. His presentations to students and families are highly effective. And he collaborates effectively with counselors and schools to make students aware of the variety of avenues open to them. Steve’s commitment to both students and counselors is second to none. He appreciates and respects the profession of school counseling and the partnership between counselors and postsecondary institutions. His efforts have been instrumental in UTI’s generous sponsorship of MASCA meetings, conferences, and publications.

MASCA Torch Awards The torch awards consist of the Retiring Counselor Award and the Rising Star Award. These awards recognize the career of an exceptional counselor who is retiring or has retired in the last five years and who will “pass the torch” to JUNE 2010

a newer school counselor who demonstrates the highest standards of professional competence.

Retiring Counselor Award CYNTHIA GARRISON Guidance Counselor Easthampton Public Schools Cynthia has had a tremendous impact on Easthampton High School students and their families for many years. She possesses an innate compassion and advocates for all students. She always goes above and beyond to ensure that all students are served by the school system. Cindy motivates students to strive for excellence. Whether it is college applications, job placement, math remediation, or community placement, Cindy not only helps students but helps them to help themselves. Cindy has committed her life to supporting young people, and over the years she has influenced countless students, families, teachers and counselors. A former student—who is now a Ph.D. candidates in Neurology and Neurosurgery at McGill University—says that Cindy has “poured her heart and soul into Easthampton High School.”

Rising Star Award

JULIE MARASHIO Guidance Counselor/ Organization Counselor Billerica Memorial High School Julie, a guidance counselor at Billerica Memorial High School and member of the North Shore Guidance Directors Association, has hit the ground running. In her four years at BMHS, she has made a difference for the students, parents and personnel of the school community. She has taken the initiative to promote innovative projects that support and increase achievement for all students. In accordance with the MA Model, she was in-

strumental in developing a grade 6-12 guidance curriculum for the Billerica Public Schools. Last year, Julie filled a newly created Assistant Guidance Department Head position. She consistently met and exceeded the expectations of the position and was promoted to the position of Guidance Counselor/Organization Counselor for the current school year. Currently, Julie is seeking licensure to become a Director of Guidance in order to enhance her leadership skills.

George Thompson Memorial Scholarship Award

BETHANY ORTENZI Graduate Student Bridgewater State College The George Thompson Memorial Scholarship Award is named in honor of George Thompson, a longtime friend and contributor to MASCA. The award winner is a school counseling graduate student who demonstrates exceptional promise for leadership contribution to our profession. Bethany, a graduate student in the School Counseling Program at Bridgewater State College, works as an Academic Counselor at the college. She also interns in the guidance department at East Bridgewater High School. She is competent in both roles and consistently demonstrates her ability to work with students, families, and staff. Bethany is intuitive and positive and always gives her best effort. In her professional training classes, she participates actively and strives to excel. Through her involvement in MASCA, she immerses herself in the profession of counseling. Based on her interpersonal skills, knowledge and effectiveness as a collaborator and consultant, and keen insight, we predict that Bethany will have a bright future in the field of counseling. ■

Dean College sponsors NECA meeting AFFILIATE NEWS

In May, Northeast Counselors Association presented awards to (from left): Jay Leiendecker, Maureen Lynch, Deborah Smith, Cecilia Ramos, Sharon Odle, Mary Beth Exner, and Erik Champy.

NECA holds meetings The Northeast Counselors Association was hosted in April by Fisher College. In addition to updates on the college’s programs, NECA members, counseling interns, and graduate students heard from Deborah Smith of The Pettengill House. She presented an overview of the community social service agency, whose function is to meet the needs of individuals, children, and families in Salisbury, Amesbury, Newburyport, Merrimac, West Newbury, Newbury, Rowley, Byfield, and Groveland. At its May meeting, NECA honored several individuals for their contribution to the field of school counseling or their support of the work of school counselors. The honorees were: Counselor of the Year Dr. Erik Champy Leadership Award Maureen Lynch Administrator of the Year Mary Beth Exner Special Award Deborah Smith Torch Award Sharon Odle Rising Star Cecilia Ramos Special Recognition Award Jay Leiendecker Sponsor of the meeting at Danversport Yacht Club was Dean College. Representing the college were Dr. Paula Rooney, Jay Leiendecker, and John Marcus.

GBGA presents awards In May, Greater Boston Guidance Association honored the following individuals: Counselor of the Year James Ash Wellesley High School GBGA President Scholarship Recipient Kathleen Vhay Milton High School (Nominated by Ken Aubert, Director of Guidance) ■

COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

JUNE 2010

Massachusetts School Counselors Association, Inc. COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK Sally Ann Connolly, Editor

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YOUR MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL DATE IS INDICATED BY YEAR AND MONTH ON YOUR ADDRESS LABEL ABOVE. To renew your membership, go to MASCA’s website, www.masca.org.

MASCA Thanks Its Supporters MASCA heartily thanks all those who advertised in this year’s Counselor’s Notebook. With your support, school counselors throughout Massachusetts have been able to communicate with one another — sharing ideas, information, and professional development opportunities. Thank you, Assumption College

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts

Stonehill College

Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences

Stony Brook University

Boston University Family Development & Treatment Lab

Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority

Suffolk University

UMass Boston Curry College

New England Institute of Technology

UMass Dartmouth

Dean College New England Kurn Hattin Homes Emmanuel College Northeastern University Bouvé College of Health Sciences Framingham State College

University of Hartford, Prosthetics & Orthotics Program

University of New England

Rivier College Universal Technical Institute

Hofstra University

Johnson & Wales University

Southern New Hampshire University

Westfield State College