Unwavering Commitment from Day One

This is a paid post contributed by a Patch Community Partner. The views expressed in this post are the author's own, and the information presented has not been verified by Patch.

On the second floor of the academic wing at St. Joseph High School in Trumbull, CT, covered in college pennants and posters, you will find the school’s College & School Counseling Department. The office is a constant flurry of activity, with students regularly stopping by for quick check-ins or attending scheduled meetings. Whether it's a brief conversation or an in-depth discussion, the six Counselors and Social Worker are always engaged, with the majority of their time focused on helping students navigate their college search and application checklist.

“St. Joe’s School Counselors are more than just accessible, incredible resources,” remarked Terence Houlihan, Director of College & School Counseling. “They are dedicated partners in every students’ journey from first-year to college acceptance and beyond.”

From their first day of ninth grade, all Cadets are introduced to a structured and supportive Freshman Success Program. The program is designed to provide a seamless transition from middle school to St. Joseph High School. Guiding students through this crucial year is about so much more than academic performance – it’s about teaching students how to explore their interests through Clubs or Sports; it’s about setting academic and personal goals; and it’s about learning to communicate and make new friends – something that is especially important at the incoming Class of 2028 includes students from 34 towns and 50 middle schools.

“I especially loved our workshops in the Student Academic Center,” remarked Miranda Martinez, a rising sophomore. “We learned the best ways to take notes in class and how to use our SJ Student Planners. This really helped me organize my homework and prepare for tests.”

Through a variety of workshops, speakers, and service opportunities, St. Joes ensure that all freshmen receive regular academic guidance and support; are able to easily access school resources; and are connected to the community through social and service opportunities as they discover their unique aptitudes and passions.

The dedication of St. Joe’s School Counselors extends well beyond their 2nd floor offices and into every single classroom. The Counselors are committed to providing year-round support for every grade at every stage of the high school journey. This includes regular check-ins, updates on academic progress, and collaborating with parents as students’ needs and aspiration evolve during their four-year journey.

"At St. Joes, we understand that academic success is just one part of the high school journey. Our goal is to empower students to take ownership of their learning, create meaningful relationships, pursue their passions, and set ambitious future goals. But we know this kind of growth doesn’t happen by accident. That’s why our Counseling team has thoughtfully designed a curriculum that’s not just supportive, but also deeply intentional, ensuring every student is guided toward a future that reflects their true potential." shared Freshman Success Counselor, Jennifer Fallon.

St. Joes School Counselors also work with students beyond the typical school year. One of the standout features at the high school is their College Application Bootcamp, a summer initiative designed specifically for rising seniors. This intensive program is a testament to the Counselors' commitment to leaving nothing to chance. Over the summer, seniors engage in a two-day bootcamp of workshops and activities focused on college applications, essay writing, and interview preparation. This proactive approach – done before the school year has even begun - helps alleviate stress and ensures that Seniors are well-prepared to present their best selves to colleges and universities.

The evidence of their hard work is easily demonstrated by the success of their recent graduates – 100% of the Class of 2024 were accepted into a 4-year college or university and as a class, they amassed more than $38,000,000 in merit-based scholarships. Students were also accepted into top-tier schools such as Brown University, the University of Notre Dame, Boston University, Fordham University, Northeastern University, and one student even chose to go abroad to the Rome City Institute.

“What I will miss the most at St. Joes are the people,” remarked Kiera Donegan, Class of 2024, who will attend Fordham University in the Fall. “The teachers are there to push you to be your best self. The counselors are supporting you every step of the way. And the friendships made will last a lifetime."

What truly sets St. Joseph High School’s College & School Counselors apart is the sense of community and collaboration that permeates their approach. Counselors work closely with teachers, administration, parents, and students to create a supportive network that fosters student success. There is an ever-present communication that allows for questions, feedbacks, concerns, and guidance.

“At St. Joes, we ensure that every single student has access to unmatched support and guidance,” remarked Mr. Houlihan. “Our College Counseling programs are designed to develop students into well-adjusted, responsible, empathetic, and emotionally intelligent young adults prepared for the collegiate world and beyond.”

Interested in meeting St. Joseph High School College & School Counselors? Be sure to register for their Fall Open House on Sunday, October 20, 2024 from 1:00pm-3:00pm to learn how they operationalize College Prep unlike any other high school. You can register at sjcadets.org/openhouse.

This post is an advertorial piece contributed by a Patch Community Partner, a local brand partner. To learn more, click here.