Boonton High School Guidance Department
973-335-9700 ext 2234
Dear Parents and Guardians:
The Guidance Department looks forward to a new school year which promises to be filled with challenges and rewards.
The school counselors, Mrs. Johanne DeFilippo, Mrs. Linda Kacur, and Mrs. Patricia Picazio take pride in their work, our programs and services, and in the accomplishments of our students. Each serves as an excellent resource for students, parents, and staff.Each advocates and helps assigned students focus on academic, personal/social/career development so they may achieve success in school and are prepared to lead fulfilling lives as responsible members of society.
You are encouraged to partner with the counselor assigned to your child to discuss a variety of topics including the scheduling process, graduation requirements, adolescent behavior, academic achievement, testing, transitioning into and out of high school, the college application process, and financial aid.
We are pleased to introduce a new member of the department, Ms. Leah Birchler, who will serve as a Student Assistance Counselor (SAC).Ms. Birchler will help identify and help troubled students who may be experiencing any number of problems that interfere with a student’s successful high school experience.These problems include, but are not limited to, alcohol/drug problems, family crises, eating disorders, and poor self-image.
Margie Norman from San Antonio, Texas is credited with a poem that appeared in The School Counselor many years ago. We’d like to share it with you, as we begin a new year, as it expresses the desire of our school counselors to serve you and your children.
Respectfully,
Lois A. Branch, Guidance Director
A COUNSELOR’S PRAYER
When I am wearied by trivia,
when there’s still another report to file,
if a child should need me,
give me the strength to go that extra mile.
I want to remember group process,
active listening, each consultation skill,
but I pray I never forget the child, his or her needs to fulfill.
I pray I can be humble
aware that no miracle worker am I.
But let me strive to do my best
and not be content to just get by.
Let me remember to be thankful
forinsight that helps me to see
ways to reach and serve
