wise words
life skills
tips & advice
life skills
trends
a day in the life of a guidance counselor
resources
scholarships
PARENTAL
GUIDANCE
SUGGESTED
parent to parent
by Caitlin Howell
A high-school guidance counselor shares
where her job ends and parents’ jobs begin.
It is not uncommon for parents to view guidance counselors as the main form
of support and direction for helping their teen figure out life after high school.
But according to Jerri Lynn Morrow, the 11th and 12th grade counselor at
Pleasant Grove High School in Pleasant Grove, Ala., your teen still needs you
to be a part of the process of getting them on the right path. Check out what a
guidance counselor really does and what you should be doing too. “It takes a
team to educate students,” Morrow said. Make sure you’re a part of that team.
HOW PARENTS CAN HELP
Watch the grades.
According to Morrow, the most common question from parents is, “Where can
I find scholarship money?” It is important to keep a close eye on your student’s
academic progress if you want them to qualify for scholarships. Morrow encourages parents to check online at least once a week to track your student’s attendance
and grades.
Talk to the counselor.
Jerri Lynn’s
School Day
l.
Arrive at schoo
time to talk
, Morrow allows
By arriving early
ss, in
they are not in cla
to students while
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their academic cla
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Many parents will
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opping their stude
while they are dr
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day, Mor
Throughout the
as well
classes scheduled,
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prep.
rtunities for ACT
as setting up oppo
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ith teachers, help
She then meets w
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learn about the stu
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nts can be best as
and how the stude
school
work closely with
Counselors also
tter ways
in order to find be
administration to
ike.
rs and students al
to help the teache
After hours.
after
r Morrow to stay
It’s not unusual fo
students
ng to meet with
school, continui
and parents.
With so many students, it’s important that you make an appointment, at least
yearly, with your child’s counselor to discuss future plans and ensure that their
schedule and activities are aligned. Chances are, your teen’s guidance counselor is
also open Ѽ