Downers Grove South Recognized for Outstanding Counseling Services

Downers Grove South High School was recognized this week for having an outstanding counseling program, School District 99 announced Thursday.

The school was designated a Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) school by the American School Counseling Association for the second time, the first being in 2014, according to a release from the district.

“Achieving RAMP status involves a rigorous, introspective process of how the department operates in order to improve, and I’m proud of our team for challenging themselves to achieve this high level of excellence to benefit our students,” Ed Schwartz, South High’s principal, said in the release. “Even more so, I am proud of what they do for our school community each and every day.”

South High’s Counseling and Student Support Services department is made up of counselors, social workers, psychologists, nurses, support staff and a student assistance coordinator. Counselors Amy Klug, Cory Rasho and Kate Blader were the school’s RAMP steering committee this year.

“Every member of our team works daily to care for students, teachers and families, and it is this high level of care that has contributed to our success in earning this achievement,” Assitant Principal for CSSS Vince Walsh-Rock said in the release.

South High will be honored for the achievement at a recognition ceremony this summer hosted by the American School Counselor Association, which will dole out the awards.

“This year’s RAMP honorees have shown their commitment to students and the school counseling profession,” Jill Cook, assistant director for ASCA, said in the release. “These schools used data to drive their program development and implementation so all students can achieve success. RAMP designation distinguishes these schools and encourages school counselors nationwide to strive for excellence.”

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Photo courtesy of Community High School District 99