The beginning of high school is an exciting time for students and families!  This is a year of transition, for sure!  Students at this age are eager to be with their friends and involved in activities that they enjoy, while still maintaining close ties to their family.  They are also full of self-doubt and raging hormones.  High school freshmen begin with a clean slate, but they quickly establish themselves among their peers and teachers within a matter of weeks.  This is when the college-bound high school freshman starts to look at the competition around him to determine how he measures up.  Freshmen are exposed to new clubs and activities that were previously not available to them, and when allowed to explore these options, many students find their passion and path for their high school career and beyond. 

As an educator with over 25 years of experience, and as the mother of two amazing adult daughters, I've helped several thousand students and families plan for a successful high school career and beyond.  During my tenure as a high school guidance counselor in Rhode Island and Florida, I typically managed over 350 students per year in grades 9-12.... with every caliber of student.    Each grade has its own curriculum to address social, emotional as well as educational needs.  I am familiar with all of the "seasons" of the high school student, what needs to be done when, and where to find the necessary resources.  And if I don't know the answer, one of my colleagues does!  My expertise, along with my ability to easily connect with teenagers from all cultures, is what makes this type of class an enjoyable 45 minutes as students are empowered to forge their own path in life.