Issuu

Volume 45

Number 10

www.masca.org

June 2009

When Opportunity Knocks

KAREN D’AMOUR MASCA President

pportunity. How could you not like that word? It is full of hope, choice, subtle promise of more to come, and a definition that is inviting—a favorable juncture of circumstance. We all know what opportunity is, but we don’t always understand its presence in our lives. If you were like me a little over two years ago, you would think of opportunity only if it came into your life at the best or perfect time. Something like the Macy’s shoe sale in the spring. Yes, getting an additional 25% off if you purchase two or more pairs of shoes as the graduation and wedding season approaches is my idea of opportunity. However, I learned something very significant over two years ago when the opportunity to run for MASCA president was suggested to me. I thought of myself as a woman who had a plan, and this did not fit. The truth that I have not shared with anyone until now is that I did hope to be MASCA president one day. I dreamed of perhaps earning my way onto the Governing Board by running for an open position such as VP of Secondary Education. Once in this position for years I would prepare for a run at president. Instead, the opportunity to run for president was presented to me out of the

context of my plan. Where did my mind go? Probably the same place most people’s would: to all the reasons why this was not the right time. You see, it was still an opportunity and what I most needed to do was to revisit my plan in light of this opportunity and make a decision. Fortunately I had been offered a job position a few years prior, and the principal making the offer said something profound to me. He said, “This is an opportunity. It has arrived today. It may not be what you expected to have happen and it may not be the perfect time for it to happen. I can tell you for sure. It is being presented to you now, but what you can’t do is predict if it will be available in the future when it may fit your plans better. In fact, in this case, I can tell you that with what may happen to the economy, this offer will most likely never come again.” I remember not being ready. I agonized. I reminded myself that sometimes our comfort zones hold us in mediocrity. I leaped. It wasn’t pretty. Instead of a graceful gazelle leaping, the image was more like that of an indecisive squirrel crossing the street. I waffled, but in the end I did it. I now count embracing change

and opportunity as two of my strengths. Opportunity is just that. It is a favorable juncture of circumstance. You can say, “No thanks” or you can embrace it. Either response can be correct, and by merely making a decision you make it the correct one. If it works out, you can say, “What a wonderful opportunity.” If it doesn’t work out, you can use one of my favorite old expressions: “Experience is what you get when you don’t get what you want.” Navigating the fine art of opportunity leads to more opportunity. I move into my past president year hoping to expand on my responsibilities to MASCA. This time next year I will be telling you about the “Yeses” l embraced and the roads it took me (and possibly you) and the benefits I hope it brings to our organization. Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your MASCA President 2008-2009. It was an honor, privilege, and a responsibility that I will never forget. I have the good fortune to be going into my twentyfifth year as a school counselor. It is my ideal profession and the answer to one of my life’s dreams. May it be the same for each of you. All the best! ■

MASCA Fall Conference Holiday Inn, Boxborough • October 6, 2009 Keynote Speaker Pat Nailor, 2009-2010 ASCA President Carey Dimmitt on Solution Focused Counseling Hot topics in college admissions and much more! For details and registration, go to MASCA’s website, www.masca.org

MASCA Professional Development Opportunity

MA Model Summer Institute 2009 COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK 2008 – 2009 PRESIDENT KAREN M. D’AMOUR Manchester Essex Regional High School 36 Lincoln Street, Manchester, MA 01944 Tel. 978-526-7641 • Fax 978-526-2044 E-mail: damourk@mersd.org PRESIDENT-ELECT CHRISTINE EVANS Director of Guidance East Bridgewater High School 11 Plymouth Street, East Bridgewater, MA 02333 E-mail: cevans@EBPS.net PAST PRESIDENT JENNIFER JUST McGUIRE Upper Cape Cod Regional Technical School 220 Sandwich Road, Bourne, MA 02532 Tel. 508-759-7711 x247 • E-mail: jmcguire@uppercapetech.org VICE PRESIDENT ELEMENTARY AMANNDA BARTRAM Lynn Public Schools, Lynn, MA 01902 E-mail: bartrama@lynnschools.org VICE PRESIDENT MIDDLE / JUNIOR HIGH RICHARD WHITE Gateway Regional Middle School 12 Littleville Road, Huntington, MA 01050 E-mail: RWhite@GRSD.org VICE PRESIDENT SECONDARY JENNIFER LISK Medway High School Medway, MA 02053 E-mail: lisk@medway.k12.ma.us VICE PRESIDENT POSTSECONDARY JAY LEIENDECKER Vice President Enrollment Services, Dean College Tel. 508-541-1509 • Fax 508-541-8726 E-mail: jleiendecker@dean.edu VICE PRESIDENT ADMINISTRATORS CAROLYN RICHARDS Somerville High School Somerville, MA E-mail: crichards@k12.somerville.ma.us VICE PRESIDENT COUNSELOR EDUCATORS FELICIA L. WILCZENSKI, Ed.D. Professor and Associate Dean Graduate College of Education UMass Boston, Boston, MA 02125 E-mail: Felicia.Wilczenski@umb.edu VICE PRESIDENT RETIREES RALPH SENNOTT P.O. Box 1391, Westford, MA 01886 Tel. 978-692-8244 • E-mail: ralphsennott@hotmail.com EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR THOMAS HUGHART Wellesley High School, Wellesley, MA 02481 Tel. 781-446-6305 x5142 • Fax 781-446-6308 E-mail: thom_hughart@wellesley.mec.edu TREASURER TINA KARIDOYANES P.O. Box 1007, Monument Beach, MA 02553 Tel. 508-759-3986 • E-mail: tkaridoyanes@gmail.com SECRETARY ANN HOURIGAN North Reading High School, North Reading, MA 01864 Tel. 978-664-7800 • E-mail: annhourigan@yahoo.com Questions concerning membership in the Massachusetts School Counselors Association should be addressed to:

July 15 & 16, 2009 and November 18, 2009 at Dean College Instructors: Katie Gray, Jan Tkaczyk, Helen O’Donnell 3 Fitchburg State Graduate Credits available. “The MA Model reminds me of a business strategic plan. Strategic plans have a vision/mission statement, long term objectives, SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, time based) goals, and an action plan.” — Maria Paoletti, Framingham State College graduate student and business owner

Join colleagues to learn more about the MA Model and plan implementation initiatives. Registration form is posted at www.masca.org. Send inquiries to pdchair@masca.org.

MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR DEBORAH CLEMENCE P.O. Box 805, East Dennis, MA 02641 E-mail: DeborahClemence@verizon.net The Counselor’s Notebook is published by the Massachusetts School Counselors Association, Inc. 10 times a year, September through June. The yearly subscription rate is $20.00; individual issues are $2.00. Opinions expressed in the articles published herein represent the ideas and/or beliefs of those who write them and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Massachusetts School Counselors Association, Inc. The acceptance of an advertisement for publication does not imply MASCA endorsement of the advertiser’s programs, services, or views expressed. © 2009 by the Massachusetts School Counselors Association. All rights reserved. Questions concerning submission of articles, publication deadlines, advertising rates, etc., should be addressed to: SALLY ANN CONNOLLY, Editor 19 Bayberry Road, Danvers, MA 01923 Tel. 978-774-8158 • Fax 978-750-8154 E-mail: sallyconnolly@att.net

COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

Beating Obesity: It Takes a Village

orget special diets. If you want to lose weight, eat less, exercise at least 90 minutes each week, and get support for your efforts. Writing in the February 26 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, researchers report that overweight or obese adults in their two-year study lost weight mainly by reducing their caloric intake. Contrary to the claims of proponents of the Atkins Diet, the South Beach Diet, and others, the source of the calories mattered less than the actual amount. Dieters were just as successful when the calories came from reduced carbohydrates, reduced protein, or reduced fat. Participants in the study included 811 adults, male and female, in two locations, Boston and Louisiana. They were divided into four groups, each of which was assigned to eating varying proportions of heart-healthy foods selected from the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan. The regimen also included a moderate amount of weekly exercise — 90 minutes — and individual as well as group counseling sessions. Although they varied in age, income, and geographical location, participants in the study shared a key ingredient in weight loss: motivation. Researchers found that participants lost the greatest amount of weight during the first six months. And, similar to the results of other studies, “after 12 months, all groups, on average, slowly regained body weight.” Those who lost the most weight at the end of the study, however, shared another common factor: highest attendance at the group counseling sessions. Continued social contact reinforced their efforts. In the battle against obesity, this study showed that “any diet, when taught for the purpose of weight loss with enthusiasm and persistence, can be effective.” The key lies in “behavioral factors rather than macronutrient metabolism.” But complicating any attempt to lose weight are social factors beyond the conJUNE 2009

The key to weight loss lies in behavioral factors, not macronutrient metabolism.

SALLY ANN CONNOLLY Counselor’s Notebook Editor trol of the individual. Even with support systems, the highly motivated subjects of this latest study could not maintain their weight loss. The editors of the NEJM say that “individual treatment is powerless against an environment that offers so many high-calorie food and labor-saving devices.” Reversing the obesity epidemic, they say, requires broad changes in society. A total-community approach seems to be working in France, where several communities have adopted a program called EPODE (Together Let’s Prevent Childhood Obesity). Town officials, families, schools, medical personnel, restaurant owners, the media, and others are working cooperatively to promote good nutrition and exercise. After only five years, the percentage of overweight children in the communities has dropped dramatically. Spain and Belgium are incorporating the program as well, and communities in Greece, Australia, and Quebec, Canada are introducing their own versions. It may be time for us to consider a similar approach. As the editors of the NEJM say, “The only effective alternative that we have at present for halting the obesity epidemic is large-scale gastric surgery.” Schools, which are vital to reforming attitudes and behavior, can lead the way. They can start by removing all unhealthful foods and drinks from their menus and vending machines. They can ensure that all students receive wholesome, hearthealthy meals as well as continuous instruction about nutrition. And because

children no longer opt to spend their free time out of doors, biking, skating, playing ball or hopscotch or hide and seek, schools can integrate periods of physical exercise into their daily schedules. Most importantly, schools can screen students for total body mass. No parent wants to hear, “Your baby is fat.” But recognition of a problem early in life is a giant step toward preventing obesity and related health problems in adulthood. ––––––––––––––––––––

Ms. Connolly writes regularly for The Danvers Herald, and her columns are syndicated nationally by Senior Wire News Service. For more information, go to www.neverbetter.net. ■

A Final Thank-You

am actually writing this at the beginning of May, having just returned from the annual spring conference. What a conference! I love the excitement and energy that fills the room when so many counselors are gathered together. It is that time when we all come together to renew our efforts and reinforce our commitment to our students and our profession. Helen O’Donnell and her mighty staff once again provided a masterpiece of professional development. Each of the keynote speakers inspired us, encouraged us and validated us. The exhibits were informational, helpful, and enjoyable. Each of these events is so much MASCA. It is a result of efforts on the part of so many people and so well appreciated by all who attended. I think I feel my proudest at these conferences. Another thing the end of the (school) year brings is a look back at the events of the year. We started with a very successful fall conference in Boxborough, highlighted by our advocacy panel in the morning with two state legislators, Rep. Alice Peisch and

THOM HUGHART MASCA Executive Director Rep. Kevin Aguiar; the Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Dr. Karla Baehr; and the president of ASCA, Jim Bierma. The afternoon presentations by Dr. Barent Walsh and Dr. Carey Dimmitt were great. Then came the School Counselor Advocacy Day on the Hill and the publication of our vision document, which we shared with our legislators. There were regional workshops with Regina Tate, a leading force in educational law. And then came the finale in Sturbridge, our year-end conference.

Of course, during the year all the affiliates were meeting, conferencing, networking, and sharing. I personally have witnessed so much growth in MASCA over the last few years. We truly are on the move. There are so many opportunities for all of us to be involved in MASCA and its offerings. Finally, it’s all about the people. Our retired counselors, who stay active and committed to the profession (actually to the people in the profession) and work tirelessly and continuously in so many areas. Our full-time counselors, who still carve out time from the workday to advance the mission and vision of school counseling. And our rising stars: our interns, our future, our hope (that we have taught them well). This has been such a difficult year in many ways — the economy, unemployment, and personal and social hardships. It is very reassuring to reflect on a year of growth, progress, and advancement for our profession. On behalf of MASCA I want to thank you for the time and energy you have personally put into our organization. ■

A Fond Farewell

he end of another school year is in sight, and while our students are likely thinking about the upcoming summer and their plans, most of us are already thinking about the start of the next school year and planning for it. Before you know it, another school year will start! Where did the past nine months go? Every experience we have, both personally and professionally, impacts us as individuals and affects the journey that is our future. The expression “Time flies” simply does not have enough power to describe my life over the past three years. Since the time that the MASCA membership elected me president-elect in the spring of 2006, I became engaged, planned a wedding, and welcomed my first child. In between those events, I attended MASCA and ASCA LDIs, a Delegate Assembly, six MASCA conferences (fall and spring), and numerous Governing Board and Executive Council meetings. I also received my CAGS in May 2007. Despite the blur that the past three years has become, my experience with MASCA leadership stands at the fore-

JENNIFER McGUIRE MASCA Past President front, along with the exciting changes in my personal life. I have to be honest. When I first started writing articles for the Counselor’s Notebook, I was really excited. All these possible topics jumped out at me, and I couldn’t wait to sit down each month and write a message that I wanted to share with my colleagues. As time progressed, however, I can’t say I was always so eager. There were months that I couldn’t come up with something that I thought was worth sharing. And there were times I recall e-mailing Sally

and writing, “I promise to have my article to you by tomorrow.” But now, as I sit here writing my last article, I am a bit sad. Although MASCA will still be an important part of my professional life and I plan to continue my involvement as a committee chair, I can’t help but feel that the completion of my term as past president marks the end of something. As we often do when something is over, I have been reviewing the past three years and wondering if I made a difference in our organization. What I do know is that the future of MASCA is in good hands with Karen, Chris, and, now, Carolyn at the helm. One thing I feel proud of is being instrumental in encouraging these three women to run for MASCA office. I am truly a better counselor and better person for my experiences over the past three years. I am grateful for the opportunities that MASCA has provided for me. I look forward to watching this organization grow and change as we continue to serve as school counselors and agents of change! ■ COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

How to Finish Strong By CHRISTINE EVANS, MASCA President-elect

y the time you read this month’s issue of the Counselor’s Notebook, the 2008-2009 school year will be winding down. The class of 2009 will have marched across the stage to receive their diplomas, the schedules for the 20092010 school year are likely done, and summer reading lists are gathering dust on kitchen tables all over town. We still have last minute tasks to tend to, however: the usual end-of-the-year rituals such as communicating with families (by summer school letters and phone calls), checking end-of-year report cards, and, for the ambitious school counselors, cleaning off our desks and organizing our files. As I reflect on all that we need to do, I think about my own advice to students. With a sincere heart I urge them to “give it your best and finish strong.” Once the warm weather hits, along with the dreaded MCAS season and bouts of senioritis, we often see enthusiasm for school work take a nosedive. At the same time that a strong burst of energy can make the difference between passing and failing a class for the year, or perhaps the difference between making honor roll or not, students find it difficult to get motivated to do what needs to be done. But if they give up, much of the work they have done up to this point can end up being for naught. They need our encouragement more than ever, and the challenge is to help them give it their best, to finish strong. The same is true for us. We need to not give up and not give in to the endof-the-year fatigue. All our efforts to advocate for our students throughout the year can be undone if we slow down now. We need to focus on going out on a high note, finishing strong. The students, teachers, administrators, and parents we work with each day count on us to be at our best. Many of the endof-year tasks in the guidance office require our diligence and attention so that we can set the stage for smooth operations in the fall. While I look forward to the closing of the school year, I also look forward to the things that will keep me excited and enthusiastic about the coming year. One of these is attending the ASCA National Conference in Dallas. Just when my energy and spirits need a boost, I will surround myself with dedicated profesJUNE 2009

sional school counselors. The learning and sharing that goes on when two thousand of us get together is truly an inspiration. Instead of heading into July feeling wrung out and beaten down, I will return from the conference with a new sense of purpose, a new resolve to keep at it for the sake of the students, and an address book full of new friends. If you have the opportunity, I recom-

mend the conference as a great way to renew your energy. If you are unable to attend, find your own way to finish strong. You could take a class or go on a college tour (or two or three). Whatever you do, make sure you have something to look forward to that will refresh your spirit and keep you strong, happy, and healthy. I wish you a happy summer and success in your efforts to finish strong. ■

MASCA Annual Report By KAREN D’AMOUR, MASCA President

his year our theme is “Get On Board: Advocacy, Accountability, Affiliates.” This past summer we held our 2008 MASCA Leadership Development Institute at the Colleges of the Fenway. We kicked off our theme by having Dr. Michael Akillian, Dean of Enrollment Services at Wheelock College and author of research articles on policy governance and strategic planning, speek to us specifically about MASCA’s current mission statement and strategic plan. Dr. Akillian also collaborated with us on next steps for our organization. At the MASCA Spring Conference a by-law change was approved, and Jane Rathbun became our Chairperson of the Strategic Planning Committee. Our next steps are to continue collaboration with Dr. Akillian and create an ongoing seamless strategic plan for MASCA. During our Governing Board Meetings this year we also incorporated a review and update of MASCA’s Action Plans. Our Emerging Leaders Program successfully worked with the Membership Services Committee to improve services to new counselors in Massachusetts by way of an “Information Toolkit” and a mentoring program.

Much has been done this year on the topic of advocacy, both as part of our theme as well as part of our long term strategic planning. A Vision Document was created and published entitled, “Investing in the Potential of All Massachusetts Students.” The authors of this document were Bob Bardwell, Carey Dimmitt, David Elsner, Katie Gray, Karen Harrington, Thom Hughart, Jenn Lisk, and Ian Martin. On February 4, 2009 there was a School Counselor Advocacy Day on Beacon Hill, where two pieces of counselor-related legislation are now pending. Although we do not expect that the legislation will pass this time, it is a very positive start. The two Acts are: “An Act Establishing a School Counseling Leadership Pilot Project to Accelerate College and Career Readiness in Massachusetts Public Schools” and “An Act to Assure College and Career Readiness through Six-Year Career Plans for all Massachusetts Public School Students.” The Counselor’s Notebook articles and our website supported our theme this year by publishing and posting related articles and information. In both our fall and spring conferences the three strands of our theme have been interwoven. We also

added a DESE strand and an Urban Schools strand to our spring conference. Dr. Karla Baehr, Deputy Commissioner of the DESE, has been supportive of our efforts and has participated in both of our conferences. It truly has been a year of inclusion, demonstrated by more interaction with our sixteen affiliates, by partnering with other organizations, and by expanding our professional development opportunities. We look now to sustain our current efforts on the topics listed above but also have found that our attention is needed on the topic of what we want our organization to look like in the future. It is time to develop a review plan for each of our services and evaluate how well we are meeting our members’ needs. An Ad Hoc Committee has been created to review our current services and offerings to find ways to meet the demands of the 21st Century in a manner that is fiscally responsible. This committee will have the opportunity to work with other MASCA committees to embrace opportunities and serve the members of MASCA. As always, I welcome your comments and suggestions: damourk@mersd.org. ■

MASCA 2009 DIRECTORY OF MASSACHUSETTS SCHOOL COUNSELORS The Directory lists school counselors in K-12 public, private, parochial, and regional and technical high schools. Phone, fax, and e-mail information is included. Each MASCA member will receive one (1) complimentary copy. PLEASE USE THE ORDER FORM BELOW to order more copies. Download the form at www.masca.org or order online and use your credit card.

1-5 copies @ $30.00 each . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No. ____ $ ___________ Additional Copies: 6 or more @ $25.00 each . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No. ____ $ ___________ Shipping / Handling @$3.50 each copy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No. ____ $ ___________ 5.00 P. O. Processing Fee (per order) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ ___________ Make checks payable to: MASCA TOTAL: . . . $ ______________ If mailing this form, send to: Ms. Marla Schay, Weston High School, 444 Wellesley St., Weston, MA 02493

Questions? E-mail SchayM@mail.weston.org Your name and contact information: Name: _________________________________________________________________________________________________ School District/Business: __________________________________________________________________________________ Mailing Address: ________________________________________________________________________________________ E-mail Address: _________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone: ________________________________________________________________________________________________

COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

JUNE 2009

Yes, You Can: A Call to Service By KIM GANGWISCH-MARSH MASCA Human Rights Committee Chair

Service to the community should be an integral part of a student’s learning experience.

reetings. Before I hand the chair of the Human Rights Committee over to Rachel Cumming, I want to pen a few words. It has been an honor, and privilege, to have worked with the MASCA Governing Board, and especially the past three MASCA presidents: Bob Bardwell (my dear friend who brought me on board), Jen McGuire, and Karen D’Amour. Each has served our organization with integrity and professionalism; each has made an impact on the quality of the counseling profession and the positive evolution of the MASCA organization. They and those who came before them, through their service and time, embody the kind of commitment our presidents (both Kennedy and Obama) have asked of all of us. They served their community. And keep in mind that as president of our state organization, they combined full-time work with a non-compensated position — no small task.

Serving the community On April 21, 2009, President Obama signed into law the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act. The President is pressing citizens of all ages to serve, and he says the Act “creates opportunities to serve for students, seniors and everyone in between. And it is just the beginning of a sustained, collaborative and focused effort to involve our greatest resource — our citizens — in the work of remaking this nation.” The Obama administration has set a goal of 50 hours of community service a year all for all middle school and high school students. The hope is to reach that goal with the assistance of national guidelines for service learning and funding from additional resources to help schools to develop successful programs. In addition, they are developing a plan for all college students who engage in 100 hours of community service to receive a fullyrefundable tax credit of $4,000 for their education. Service can and should be an integral part of a student’s academic, social, and emotional education. Service Learning, according to the National Youth Leadership Council, is based

on three beliefs: (1) our youth are our greatest asset, (2) community-school partnerships can revitalize education and reform communities, and (3) active learning and experimentation increase academic achievement and civil responsibility. If you attended the Service Learning Session at the MASCA spring conference, which was sponsored by the Human Rights Committee and facilitated by Joyce Fulmer, you would have a clear understanding of how service learning can positively impact our students and our communities. You would have walked away with scads of resources and information. The bottom line is that service learning positively impacts student learning while reducing levels of student alienation and behavioral problems, thus lowering incidents of teen pregnancy and class failures and positively affecting the number of school dropouts and suspensions. This is good. Please feel free to contact Joyce at jfulmer@frcog.org or 978-544-6912. She has a wealth of information and comes to the table with a passion for her work and real life, hands-on experience.

Community service vs. service learning Please do not mistake service learning with community service. Although both have volunteerism as the heart, there is a distinct difference. Community service provides service to the community and can foster citizenship and an ethic of service, but it is generally associated with either a court ordered punishment or hours of volunteer work towards a graduation requirement. Unfortunately it is often based on requisite number of hours, not always on the quality of the project. Service learning, on the other hand, uses community service as a vehicle for the attainment of academic goals and objectives. It integrates academic learning and incorporates relevant community services that meet identified needs. The primary emphasis of service learning is on enriching the understanding that happens as students apply their knowl-

edge to a community context. The most important part of the process, however— the part that truly cements the student’s appreciation and understanding of their role in civic responsibility— is the reflection piece. This is where all the elements are tied together: the connection between academics and life, the role the student plays in the identification of community needs and the design of the project, and the significance of the service work provided and how it impacts the community. Arguably, this is the most powerful part of the experience. Increasingly, empirical evidence shows that when youth have active, meaningful leadership roles and learn that they can have a real impact on social challenges, problems, and needs, they are apt to have higher academic achievement. Even the disenchanted become interested in furthering their education. And, most importantly, all involved are better equipped to plan, work in teams, and problem solve and, thus, to ultimately become better, more engaged citizens. I argue that given the data to date, no lesson taught from in front of a classroom has the kind of social, emotional, and academic (i.e., MA Model benchmarks) impact that this kind of personal and experiential learning has. Especially when that experience proves to students that they can make a positive and lasting impact on the society in which they live; that despite their youth they are not powerless and what they say and do does matter. I bid you farewell and I hope you have a relaxing and rejuvenating summer. I also hope that sometime over that necessary course of mental and physical renewal, you find the time to do two things: think about how you might introduce or support service learning projects within your school and get involved in your counseling association or affiliate because it’s time to give back. Yes, you can. ––––––––––––––––––––––

For more information, go to http://www. service-learningpartnership.org/site/Page Server?pagename=OC_research ■ COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

JUNE 2009

Conference Wrap-up By HELEN O’DONNELL MASCA Conference Chair Thank you, Attorney Tate Over one hundred colleagues gathered to hear Atty. Regina Tate review 504 legislation, explain updates, and provide application of the law through case law examples. Since her materials were not available for the session, her handouts can be downloaded from the MASCA website www.masca.org. In addition, Atty. Tate has graciously allowed MASCA members to have a website link access to her Client Advisories. This is a wonderful professional courtesy. Thank you, exhibitors Deepest appreciation to the sponsors who assisted in making our conference a huge success. MASCA is hopeful that these sponsorships and partnerships will continue to bring energy to our exhibit hall events. Thank you: • Sherry Brass, Conference Hospitality Chair from Kaplan Test Prep and her committee for again carefully planning a

creative exhibit hall and selected meals that met all dietary needs. • Bay State College entertainment students for providing conference attendees with a wonderful President’s Reception. Your DJ was spectacular and your students led the attendees with spirited dancing and laughter. I heard there are pictures of Sherry Brass and Helen O’Donnell dancing in a conga line. Fun! • Sue Gill and Nancy Brooks from Bay State College, who were the backbone of the MASCA PR Table. They promoted raffle prizes donated by conference exhibitors and MASCA affiliates and sold Red Sox merchandise donated by Rich White, Soft As A Grape (Martha’s Vineyard). The PR table money helps to fund MASCA scholarships and the graduate student networking session. • Mt. Ida College for hosting MASCA’s 48th birthday. During this reception, counselors and exhibitors networked and became familiar with exhibitor opportunities, while enjoying light refreshments.

• Universal Technical Institute: MASCA always appreciates your willingness to lend your AV equipment to assist our keynoters and presenters. Thank you also for our conference folders. • Homebuilders, Inc. for again providing our sturdy and useful conference bags. • Next Step Magazine for the name wallets. We appreciate your donation and support of our efforts to recycle them for continued use. • Exhibitors who chose Gold and Silver sponsorship were considered Light Hospitality Hosts and collectively sponsored the Wednesday Evening Welcome Reception. • All exhibitors who brought their expertise and products. A full listing of our exhibit hall participants is posted with 2009 conference information at www. masca.org.

Thank you, sponsors: PLATINUM

Bay State College Dean College Mount Ida College New England Institute of Technology Universal Technical Institute

GREEN

Fitchburg State College Homebuilders, Inc. Next Step Magazine of New England Plymouth State University Southern New Hampshire University

GOLD

American International College Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology President’s Classroom MEFA Wentworth Institute of Technology

SILVER

Becker College Kaplan Test Prep Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences Wheelock College

BRONZE

Citizens Bank Elms College High School Counselor Week Holyoke Community College Lasell College Massachusetts Army National Guard Massachusetts Community Colleges Mitchell College Open Circle Salve Regina University University of Maine at Fort Kent ■

COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

A Post-Conference Thank You By ELIZABETH REED MASCA Graduate Student Liaison

he 2009 MASCA Spring Conference was a great success. In attendance were many graduate students from school counseling programs across the state. The students were able to attend keynotes by Dr. Michael Thompson and Dr. David Blustein and a wide variety of breakout sessions. They also had the opportunity to present their own work through the Graduate Student Poster Sessions and to learn what to expect in the years ahead at a panel of both new and veteran counselors. I want to thank the graduate student poster session presenters. We had a record number of presenters, with topics ranging from career exploration to tardiness. Congratulations to the following students for an amazing job: • Lisa Conley, Rebecca Draper, Sharon Greenholt, Nicole Guthrie, Alli Hamilton, and Jillian Rettig, Boston University • Kendra Baldini, Jane Bruce, Kacie Hastings, Leslie Kelley, and Meghan McCoy, Bridgewater State College • Maria Paolettie, Fitchburg State College • Shari Bartholomew, Austin Bushey, and Kelly Trahon, Suffolk University • Chelsea Morton and Sarah Spence, UMass Amherst • Kalli Baker, Erin Clancy, Danielle Connors, Laura Fratangelo, Victoria Glasser, Catherine Grady, Katie Horan, Michael Houlihan, Sherri Minucci, Jennifer Mitchell, Elizabeth Murphy, Debbie Osborn, Rachel Puopolo, Lindsay Saba, Kara Szczesny, Lyndsey Tarsia, and Nicole Yacovone, UMass Boston • Amy Egan, Westfield State College I also want to thank our expert panelists for coming together and giving excellent advice. A big thank you to Carolynn Laurenza, John Steere, Linda DaGradi, Susan Schoenberger, and Carey Dimmitt. I know the graduate students who attended greatly appreciated your insight. JUNE 2009

One student commented, “It was so valuable to get advice about the job search from practicing counselors. They were all extremely knowledgeable and gave us useful action steps.” In conclusion, it was very exciting for me to see the many graduate students who attended this year’s conference. I heard

from more than one retiring counselor that they were happy to see the abundant energy and commitment of the incoming group of school counselors. They feel confident that this new generation will positively contribute to the growth of the organization and our profession. I cannot agree with them more! ■

ED’S VIEWS

ED BRYANT, NCC MASCA Life Trustee

y trip to the MASCA Governing Board meeting at the MASCA conference in Sturbridge was inspiring and tiring. The long trip home at night — tiring. The Governing Board meeting itself—informative and sometimes difficult, especially for me as parliamentarian. For example, when is a “friendly” amendment “unfriendly”? MASCA VP Postsecondary Jay Leiendecker, chair of the Fiscal Oversight

Committee, presented an extensive budget report, which included a 15% cut across the board, including stipends. After much discussion the budget was passed without the cut for stipends included. That section will be discussed and decided upon later. Helen O’Donnell and the Conference committee were thanked for their many hours of work. The conference and the Counselor’s Notebook provide income to support many MASCA programs. Bob Bardwell reported on the ASCA Conference, which is coming to Boston during the summer next year. The many Board members present stressed the importance of continuing with professional development. Due to time limits, other topics will be discussed at the next Board meeting. Check your CN.

And other matters At the spring conference MASCA VP Retirees Ralph Sennott had an excellent speaker on the topic of Social Security for the retiree session. What is the counselor’s role regarding the several cases of teenagers using computers to distribute nude photos of girls to their peers? We all know that our society is saturated with sexual innuendo, thanks to TV, movies, the Internet, etc. They learn the facts of life very early, and many parents are confused about when to get involved with this problem. On a positive note, some students are turning to YouTube for free tutoring in math, science, and other subjects. Check it out at www.youtube.com. Did you ever hear of TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors)? According to Bonnie Carroll, TAPS is planning a national gathering for families surviving suicide. Check it out at www. taps.org or the 24-hour crisis line, 800959-TAPS. According to Amy Zabin of the Music Therapy Center, music therapy: (1) eases anxiety, (2) blocks negative sensations, (3) reduces nausea, and (4) helps healing. Music therapists design session for individuals as well as groups. Happy summer! Live, Love, Laugh, and Learn. ■

COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

Congratulations, MASCA Award Winners! By CELESTE CIANFRANI MASCA Awards and Publicity Committee Chair

s chair of the Awards and Publicity Committee, I had the great honor of presenting MASCA’s annual awards on April 30–May 1 at the spring conference in Sturbridge. The award recipients were a diverse group of exceptional professionals who exemplify excellence and contribute meaningfully to our profession. This year we had a significant increase in the number of nominations in all award categories, and the task of selecting winners was very challenging. I want to thank each member of the Awards Committee for the time and effort they dedicated to the process. I found it encouraging to see the amount of recognition given to our deserving colleagues, and I congratulate all of the award nominees.

Counselor of the Year Sean Flynn Guidance Counselor Monument Mountain Regional High School Sean embodies all the qualities of an exemplary school counselor. His passion for young people is unparalleled, and he advocates tirelessly to give every student the opportunity to succeed. A former colleague of Sean’s noted his willingness to take on new challenges, try new approaches, explore new practices, and challenge the status quo. He seeks to improve his performance and that of the department and the school, and he does what it takes to attain excellence. Sean is regarded as a true leader of his school and community, and he instills energy, teamwork, humor, and sensitivity to all his endeavors. In addition to his regular caseload, Sean coordinates the internship program, junior class job shadow day, and Tech Prep. He also coaches the girl’s varsity soccer team, and he serves as co-advisor to the student government and a member of the Steering Committee for the NEASC self-study.

Administrator of the Year Dr. John McEwan Superintendent of Schools Whitman-Hanson Regional School District Dr. McEwan began his career as an JUNE 2009

English teacher. He then worked as a guidance counselor, assistant principal, and principal, before becoming superintendent of the Whitman-Hanson Regional School District. Dr. McEwan’s experience in a variety of roles in public and private schools has given him a rich perspective, and he understands the importance of how the parts work together to help students attain success. During his tenure as principal at Whitman-Hanson Regional High School, Dr. McEwan had a vision of a guidance department that was proactive and included comprehensive services for all students. He encouraged the transformation of the guidance department, and in less than a year, the department adopted the MA Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs. He developed a classroom guidance curriculum, began collecting data to drive decision making, and increased the rate of students heading off to college from 74% to 90%. His leadership and unwavering support made a positive difference in the lives of students. Dr. McEwan’s passion for learning and teaching has been the hallmark of his career, and he has a reputation for being dedicated to doing what is best for students. Dr. McEwan is an excellent role model for administrators and a true friend to all professional school counselors.

Leadership Award Katie Gray Unique Potential Katie Gray’s dedication to school counselors in Massachusetts is unmatched. Ms. Gray spearheaded the creation of the Massachusetts Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs, and she assisted with the development of the accompanying Implementation Guide. Katie continues as the chair of the MA Model Committee and leads the effort to implement and train school counselors statewide. To date, over 70 counselors and 50 districts in the state have participated in implementation initiatives. Katie is an adjunct professor at UMass Boston in the school counseling program. She is engaged in the evaluation of guidance programs and has presented at state, regional, and national conferences. Katie

Celeste Cianfrani presents Leadership Award to Katie Gray, MASCA past president continues to cultivate strategic partnerships with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education as well as business and industry partners in the Commonwealth, all of which lead to greater visibility and respect for school counselors. Katie Gray is a faithful advocate and consummate leader of the school counseling profession.

Special Award Jay Leiendecker Vice President for Enrollment Services Dean College MASCA’s Special Award honors an individual who has made a contribution of unusual significance that substantially affects the guidance and counseling profession. Jay Leiendecker has consistently demonstrated his commitment to professional school counselors through his active involvement in MASCA. He serves on the Governing Board as the VP Postsecondary, coordinates the annual college fair clearinghouse program, and serves as Fiscal Oversight Committee Chair. Jay goes out of his way to ensure that Dean College supports MASCA by generously sponsoring meetings as well as conference activities and MASCA publications. Jay has a deep appreciation and respect for the school counselor profession and for the partnership between counselors and higher education institutions. ■

MASCA Torch Awards 2009 Retiring Counselor Award

Phyllis Levenson (shown, far right) Retired Guidance Counselor Westfield High School

Phyllis Levenson recently retired after thirty-one years in education and counseling. Most recently she served as a guidance counselor at Westfield High School for nine years. A compassionate counselor, Phyllis advocates for all students. Her commitment to continuous learning has given her a first-hand knowledge of the nation’s colleges that some say is as extensive as the most comprehensive guidebook. Phyllis is a longtime member of MASCA and Western Massachusetts

School Counselors Association. Currently she serves as the affiliate’s past president, and she generously donates her time to attend meetings, organize professional development events, and assist with conference planning and scholarship selection. Phyllis has influenced countless students, families, teachers and counselors. In her retirement, she plans to remain active in both MASCA and WMCA and to volunteer for the Community Foundation Association.

Co-Rising Star Award Brooke Fincke, Director of Student Services and College Counseling at City on a Hill Charter Public High School, has hit the ground running. With steadfast commitment, she supports a student body that has a majority of low-income, firstgeneration college-bound students from urban Boston. Brooke inspires students to see the value of continuing their education. She counsels them on the wide range of postsecondary possibilities, helping them with college applications and the financial aid process. She also teaches a course that

emphasizes a connection between school and career. Brooke is one of the founding members of the Boston Charter School Consortium, a group of college counselors sharing resources and best practices to ensure that all charter school students are prepared for and have access to a future in higher education. She also serves on the Massachusetts Education Financing Authority (MEFA) Guidance Advisory Board, a non-profit state organization providing a wide variety of resources to assist in college financing.

Brooke Fincke (shown, far left) Director of Student Services and College Counseling City on a Hill Charter Public High School

Co-Rising Star Award Amy Scully Guidance Counselor Monson High School Amy Scully has been a guidance counselor at Monson High School since 2006. Her strong work ethic and passion have made a significant impact on student success and achievement as well as school

climate and culture. Amy is committed to ensuring that her students have the opportunities needed to succeed. Skilled in both individual and group counseling, Amy is poised, honest, and empathetic in dealing with students and the many issues that challenge school counselors on a daily basis.

Because a safe, nurturing school environment is one of her major concerns, Amy recently spearheaded the creation of a school-wide bullying taskforce. Amy is president of Western Massachusetts Counselors Association. Devoting energy and structure to the organization, she serves as an admirable role model for newer school counselors.

George Thompson Memorial Scholarship Elizabeth Reed Graduate Student Boston College Elizabeth Reed is a graduate student at Boston College. She interns at Belmont High School. Elizabeth also works as a graduate

assistant at the Lynch School of Education at Boston College, and she serves on the evaluation team for Boston Connects, a comprehensive, coordinated program that addresses barriers to learning for students throughout fourteen Boston Public Elementary Schools. Elizabeth is passionate about profes-

sional development. As MASCA’s Graduate Student Liaison, Elizabeth advocates for the needs of graduate counseling students. We are confident that she will be an outstanding school counselor and will continue to be an asset to our organization. ■ COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

JUNE 2009

Massachusetts School Counselors Association, Inc. COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK Sally Ann Connolly, Editor

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MASCA Thanks Its Supporters MASCA heartily thanks all those who advertised in this year’s Counselor’s Notebook. With your support, school counselors throughout Massachusetts have been able to communicate with one another — sharing ideas, information, and professional development opportunities. Thank you,

Assumption College

Johnson & Wales University

Saint Joseph’s College of Maine

Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts

Southern New Hampshire University

Cambridge College

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences

Stony Brook University Suffolk University

Chester College of New England Curry College

Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority

The Bridge

Dean College

Mitchell College

UMass Boston

Emmanuel College

New England Kurn Hattin Homes

UMass Dartmouth

Framingham State College

New England Institute of Technology

University of Southern Maine

Guidance Administrators Forum

Nichols College

Universal Technical Institute

Hofstra University

Rivier College

Westfield State College