NOSCA: National Office for
School Counselor Advocacy

(GPA and promotion or retention) and their habits as learners (attitudes, behaviors, self-management) and how they are connected to meeting career goals.

that connects his or her high school experience to college and career goals and that includes strategies to transition to postsecondary settings.

(and are at risk of dropping out) understand the consequences of their behaviors. Connect each student to a peer network and at least one adult in the school/community who can serve as a mentor.

to review attendance, discipline, promotion/retention, and GPA policies, and pilot changes across the school to make these policies equitable for all student groups. For example, work with teachers to develop policies that address discipline through student selfmonitoring and classroom management.

to develop an early warning/identification system for students with chronic absentee, discipline and academic issues; implement programs focused on problem solving, decision making, responsibility/consequences, selfmanagement and improvement strategies.

into the curriculum. For example, teachers can incorporate career-cluster-of-the-month initiatives, research and writing, and speaking and presenting work into assignments.

to develop a transition process that includes summer transition/bridge, parent meetings, school visits and tours, school orientation, and identification of students in need of extra academic and personal support.

to build networks, share ideas/interventions, challenges and work collectively to reach school and district goals. Collaborate with counselors in neighboring districts if yours is the only high school in the district.

(see student interventions above) and their role in assisting their children. Hold the events at a variety of times and locations (community or recreation centers, places of worship, civic centers, malls) to accommodate a range of schedules. Use materials written in parents’ native languages.

(e.g., absentee, discipline and dropout services) and to navigate the school system so they can be advocates for their students.

who can broaden their understanding of the importance of building aspirations to ensure college and career readiness.

to raise awareness of your school’s high expectations, including school attendance and appropriate behavior. Encourage community leaders to help spread the word by serving as speakers and mentors.

develop jobs, internships, service learning, apprenticeships and volunteer opportunities that expose students to both traditional and nontraditional careers. This effort can broaden and challenge students’ perspectives as they plan and prepare for college and careers.

including historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-serving institutions (HSIs) and tribal colleges. Invite representatives to come to your school to meet with students and their families.