Guidance Department

Mrs. Terri Praschak, School Counselor

Mrs. Nany Paxton, School Counselor

Mrs. Kate Bionde, Secretary

 

The school counselors at Pequannock Valley Middle School work closely with the teachers to meet the academic, social and emotional needs of the students by attending weekly PLC Meetings and conferencing with students individually and in small groups. They are also available to the parents who have questions or need to arrange parent-teacher conferences.

 

In the fall, the counselors schedule individual conferences with each 6th grade student and do a variety of getting-to-know-you activities. Each student completes a square for our 6th quilts, which are then displayed in the hallways. Students are also placed in small organizational and study groups based on teacher recommendations and need.

 

In the winter months, the 7th graders participate in various career exploration activities. The counselors visit the classrooms to work on The Career Game Explorer Workbook, followed by an individual meeting with each student to discuss the results of the interest inventory each student completes.

 

The 8th graders continue working on exploring career options by completing a Web-based interest inventory program in the fall and then – based on the results of this inventory -- participating in November’s Career Day. In the spring, various high school orientation programs are provided by the PV and PTHS school counselors.

 

There is a comprehensive, 5th grade orientation program facilitated by the PV school counselors. In the spring of students’ 5th grade year, the counselors -- along with select 7th and 8th grade peer leaders -- visit each elementary school to meet 5th graders in small groups. In May, the 5th graders spend a half day at PV participating in a mini-orientation program. This session includes a building tour, a chance to meet the 6th grade teachers, and also lunch in the cafeteria. At the end of August, these same students are offered another opportunity to tour the building, and the counselors discuss key information related to the upcoming first day of school. At this time, incoming 6th graders receive their locker assignments, and are given a chance to decorate them as well.