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 Welcome to the HES school counselor web page! This page will provide information about programs offered at HES as well as links to useful information. 

 

What is a school counselor?

 

    A school counselor is a teacher, a helper, and a listener. I work with all students, regardless of grade level. The Hopewell Valley Regional School District follows a developmental guidance program meaning counselors develop strategies and supports based on the developmental needs of students. In my role as school counselor, I teach classes, run groups, and meet with students individually. It is my goal to be visible and accessible to all students so should they ever need my help, I am a familiar face.

 

When and why would you meet with a student?

 

   I meet with students for a variety of reasons. Sometimes our meetings are the result of a parent or teacher request. Other times a student asks to meet with me.

  

Are parents always notified when counselors meet with students?

 

   My goal is always to work with families. Rest assured I will always make you aware of anything urgent regarding your child. However, sometimes I help students resolve simple conflicts with friends and in these cases, you may not hear from me. Disagreements with friends happen from time to time. Often, I am simply helping students have a conversation with one another in an effort to solve a problem.

 

When and why should I call the school counselor?

 

   If you have concerns about your child I am always here to help. Please call any time for any reason. No concern is too large or small.

 

What is Intervention and Referral Services (I&RS)?

 

   I&RS is a general education service available to all students. It is a collaborative group that brainstorms strategies to support student success. The members of the committee include the principal, school counselor, learning consultant, a special education teacher, a regular education teacher, and the school nurse. Depending upon the student's needs, the committee develops a plan of strategies and interventions. Once the plan is initiated, the I&RS committee continues to monitor student progress to assess whether the strategies are working or if additional intervention should be considered.