Home Page Mission, Philosophy and Goals Newington Guidance Program Description Middle School Program Description Outside Agencies Resources Helpful Hints for Students Grade 5 to 6 Grade 6 to 7 Grade 7 to 8 School site

Mission Statement and Goals MISSION STATEMENT To facilitate the development of all students to reach their potential as productive human beings and to prepare them to function effectively in a changing society. PHILOSOPHY School guidance may be viewed as an educational philosophy as well as a distinct, defined program of services. As a philosophy, guidance is founded on the belief that each student possesses intrinsic worth and specific rights, and is a unique and dynamic personality capable of personal growth and self-direction. As a program of services guidance is preventive, developmental and remedial in nature. The former identifies appropriate developmental needs through a planned sequential program of individual, group and classroom activities. Developmental guidance services look toward meeting the needs of all students and developing positive attitudes/skills in the areas of self-awareness, interpersonal relations, educational awareness/decision making, and career awareness/goal setting. While the developmental aspect of the guidance program focuses on prevention and developing coping skills, the remedial aspect of the program ensures the provision of services that respond to immediate needs and concerns of students whether these concerns involve information, counseling, consultation, crisis intervention or referral. It is collaborative in nature and depends on the continuing support of school staff, students, and parents. GOALS ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT Goal 1: Skills for Learning Students will acquire the attitudes, knowledge and skills that contribute to effective learning in school and across the life span. Goal 2: School Success Students will complete school with the academic preparation essential to choose from a wide range of substantial post secondary options, including college. Goal 3: Academics to Life Success Students will understand the relationship of academics to the world of work, and to life at home and in the community. CAREER DEVELOPMENT Goal 4: Investigate Careers Students will acquire the skills to investigate the world of work in relation to knowledge of self and to make informed career decisions. Goal 5: Career Success Students will employ strategies to achieve future career goals with success and satisfaction. Goal 6: Relationship Between School and Work Students will understand the relationship between personal qualities, education, training, and the world of work. PERSONAL/SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT Goal 7: Respect for Self and Others Students will acquire the knowledge, attitudes, and interpersonal skills to help them understand and respect self and others. Goal 8: Goal Setting, Goal Attainment Skills Students will make decisions, set goals, and take necessary action to achieve goals. Goal 9: Survival and Safety Skills Students will understand safety and survival skills.