Freshmen Grade Advisor -  Ms. Jennifer Drinkwater

Ms. Drinkwater's email address: jdrinkwater@schools.nyc.gov

The Role of the Grade Advisor
Today's Advisors are vital members of the education team. They help all students in the areas of academic achievement, personal/social development and career development, ensuring today's students become the productive, well-adjusted adults of tomorrow.

Responsibilities to Students
The School Grade Advisor:

a. Has a primary obligation to the student, who is to be treated with respect as a unique individual.
b. Is concerned with the educational, academic, career, personal and social needs and encourages the maximum development of every student.
c. Respects the student’s values and beliefs and does not impose the counselor’s personal values.
d. Is knowledgeable of laws, regulations and policies relating to students and strives to protect and inform students regarding their rights.

Keeps information confidential unless disclosure is required to prevent clear and imminent danger to the student or others or when legal requirements demand that confidential information be revealed. Counselors will consult with appropriate professionals when in doubt as to the validity of an exception.

Connecting with Your Child’s School Counselor for a Successful School Year

Understand the expertise and responsibilities of your child’s school counselor. School counselors make a measurable impact in every student’s life, assisting with academic, career and personal/social development.  Professional school counselors are trained in both educating and counseling, allowing them to function as a facilitator between parents, teachers and the student in matters concerning the student’s goals, abilities and any areas needing improvement. School counselors provide services not only to students in need, but to all students.

Discuss your child’s challenges and concerns with the school counselor. As a parent, you know your child best.  However, the school counselor can help you better understand your child as a student.  It’s important to encourage your child’s expression of needs, hopes and frustrations.  School counselors are trained to help your children. 

 Learn about your child’s school and social connections from the school counselor. When you need information or assistance, your child’s school counselor can help you get in touch with the appropriate school officials; learn about school policies on behavior, attendance, and dress; know the school calendar of important dates and stay connected with the school in many other ways. The school counselor can also help you locate resources in the community when you need them.

Work with the school counselor to identify resources and find solutions to problems. If your child is having a problem at school, it is important to work with your child’s school counselor to find solutions.  Discuss resources available within and outside of the school, and get information on how such programs can benefit your child.  Your school counselor can be a valuable partner in your child’s education and preparation for life beyond school.

Action Plan: High School Freshman

New York State Department of Labor - Working Papers
An employment certificate, often referred to as "working papers", is required for minors under 18 before they may begin work. High school graduates, minors ...
http://www.labor.state.ny.us/workerprotection/laborstandards/workprot/wphmpg.shtm

College and Career Planning from MyRoad.com
The most comprehensive resource for education and career decision making. Determine your personality type; explore college majors, colleges, and careers.
http://www.nycareerzone.org

Help recognizing when your teen is troubled
http://www.teenpaths.org/tips.htm

Raising boys and their emotional struggles
http://www.pbs.org/parents/raisingboys/

How to Make Parent-Teacher Conferences Work for Your Child
http://www.nea.org/parents/ptconf.html

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