Head of School Letter: Honoring our Counselors and Learning Support Team

This week is National School Counseling Week, when we highlight the unique contributions and impact of those counselors and learning specialists who work with our students to help them thrive and achieve success. Shorecrest has a robust counseling program, with three full-time school counselors, four full-time college counselors, a part-time school psychologist, four learning specialists - one in each school Division, along with the Dean of Student Support Services and the Director of the Center for Academic Excellence and Student Well-Being. 

Our comprehensive counseling program values the complexities of human development, recognizing the importance of addressing academic, social, and emotional needs together to facilitate overall well-being and growth. At the heart of our school community, our counselors are committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity, empathy, and support. The objective is to enhance the social and emotional learning of our students, starting with our youngest students in the Experiential School and continuing throughout a student’s Shorecrest journey. 

Our dedicated team of school counselors stand as pillars of support and advocates for student well-being. With a focus on nurturing the development of every student, our counselors play a pivotal role in fostering a safe and nurturing environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Through personalized guidance and comprehensive programs including interactive activities and exercises, discussion groups and one-on-one conversations, our counselors empower students to navigate the complexities of life, address challenges, and build the resilience needed to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

The goal of our college counselors is to support students in their Upper School experience focusing on their academics, building relationships with their teachers and peers, and becoming involved in the life of the school and the broader community, all of which will contribute to success in the college process. Information is disseminated early in the Upper School experience to help families make better informed and thoughtful choices regarding academic preparation and co-curricular choices. Throughout the Upper School years, our college counselors meet with and support students as they build individualized plans towards post-secondary success. 

Our CAE learning specialists are dedicated to providing comprehensive academic support that empowers students to define and pursue their own paths to academic success, encouraging autonomy and self-determination in their educational journey. Inclusivity is a core tenet, ensuring that all students feel welcome, respected, and supported regardless of background, ability, or identity. The CAE team promotes resilience by equipping students with the skills and resources to navigate challenges, fostering a culture of perseverance and a growth mindset.

At Shorecrest, we are deeply committed to each student’s individual success. The counseling and learning support resources we dedicate to this effort reflect our deep commitment to ensuring that every student feels valued, heard, and empowered to reach their full potential. 

Please join us in celebrating National School Counseling Week!

All the best, 

Nancy

Read the recent spotlights on our counselors Kate Fierce (Lower School), JJ Dalton (Middle School), and Brian Wiley (Upper School).