Vikings Counselor Connection
Schreiber Guidance Department Newsletter June 2023
A note from the Director's Desk
Hello Vikings!
We've made it to June! It's hard to believe that the last days of school are upon us. While some of you may be counting the days, there is still much to be done in Schreiber Guidance and Counseling. Before the pomp and circumstance begin for the Class of 2023, please read the following updates:
We'll be hosting another "College Conversations" meeting on June 12th. If you were unable to make the May meeting, we hope you can join our discussion. More information is below.
The 2023-24 master schedule will be turned over to us in early June. Counselors will make any necessary corrections and may reach out to some students if needed. See below for additional information.
There will be some changes to our counseling delivery at Schreiber. A letter describing the changes will be shared with parents and students in June. All communications sent to parents and students in June will be posted to the Schreiber Guidance and Counseling webpage. Please check this page over the summer for any updates.
I wish you all a safe and happy summer!
Lorrie Director, Pre-K-12 Director of Guidance
High School Guidance Team
Counselors and email addresses
Guidance Office phone: (516) 767-5810
Office Hours: 8:00 am - 3:15 pm
Counselors:
Ms. Cerny ncerny@portnet.org
Ms. Galdamez agaldamez@portnet.org
Ms. Garcia vgarcia@portnet.org
Ms. Jacobson ljacobson@portnet.org
Ms. Hazan khazan@portnet.org
Mr. Lorge jlorge@portnet.org
Ms. Ludwig jludwig@portnet.org
Ms. Rafferty drafferty@portnet.org
Ms. Strell dstrell@portnet.org
Clerical staff:
Ms. Hasselberger, Ms. Hernandez, Ms. Marzec, Ms. O'Kelly
Schreiber Guidance and Counseling Website - stay informed during the summer months!
The best way to stay informed during the summer is through the Schreiber Guidance and Counseling website. Look for the "June 2023 Information" page for current events from our department.
Students, please get in the habit of checking your Portnet email regularly to stay up to date on Guidance and Counseling information. Students and families, you can also find information on the Schreiber Guidance and Counseling website and by reading this newsletter. Previous newsletters are also on our webpage for your reference.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
College Conversations: Informed Consumer Series - Monday, June 12th!
When:
Monday, June 12th, 6:30 to 7:30 pm
Where:
Paul D. Schreiber High School Library
Hope to see you there!
Attention: Class of 2023!
Seniors,
- It's awards season! Invitations for the Senior Community Awards will go out in early June. Senior Community Awards will be Wednesday, June 14th at 7pm in the Schreiber auditorium.
- IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM MS. ANISIS: Cap & Gowns will be distributed at graduation rehearsal. Be sure your student account is cleared of all expenses and all materials & Chromebooks are returned to school. Cap & Gowns are not released unless this important step is complete.
- Final transcripts will be sent to your colleges the week of July 4th.
- Have questions? Come to Guidance for more information.
Class of 2023: Final Transcripts
Seniors, your final transcripts will be sent via Naviance to your colleges the week of July 3rd. Although your schools are asking for them now, keep in mind that high schools across the country have different graduation dates. This is the earliest we can send them after final grades are posted to your transcript. If you have any questions or concerns, please see your counselor.
College Planning Guide for the Class of 2024
IMPORTANT: New Scheduling Procedures!
Please read the following MUST KNOW procedures!
Schreiber school counselors will be working on schedule corrections throughout the month of June. Some students will be contacted to discuss any necessary corrections. If you are not contacted to discuss your schedule, this means you do not have any conflicts and a conversation isn't necessary!
Students will be able to view their course schedule (no teachers yet) at the end of the second week in June. An email and text announcement will let you know when they're visible on the portal. Schedules will be finalized prior to the end of June, and no further changes will be made during the summer. Schedules will post again in late August on Synergy, our new student information system.
We have created the following NEW procedures for schedule corrections. Corrections will be made ONLY if there is an error in your schedule. Examples of errors include, missing classes, double classes, or repeat classes. Not receiving your desired elective does not constitute a mistake. Teacher changes and section changes will not be accommodated. You must read the information below for changes to schedule corrections at the start of school. The following is the schedule for corrections only prior to the first day of school:
Monday, August 28th, 9:00 am to 11:00 am: In-person schedule corrections for SENIORS ONLY
Monday, August 28th, 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm: In-person schedule corrections for JUNIORS ONLY
Tuesday, August 29th, 9:00 am to 11:00 am: In-person schedule corrections for SOPHOMORES ONLY
Wednesday, August 30th, 12:00pm to 2:00 pm: In-person chedule corrections for FRESHMAN ONLY
Counselors will be unavailable for corrections prior to your scheduled date. If you are unable to attend during your date/time, you can let us know by emailing your counselor or calling (516) 767-5810 when your schedule posts in late August.
Thank you for your cooperation! With everyone's help, we expect a smooth beginning to the school year!
Coming in August - Common App Workshop!
Join Ms. Cerny, Mr. Lorge, and Ms. Strell for virtual help on starting your Common Application
On Wednesday, August 16th, Schreiber Guidance and Counseling will host two virtual workshops to help students with their Common App. Counselors will guide students through the steps and answer your questions. A link to the meeting will be shared prior to the event and posted on the Schreiber Guidance and Counseling website.
Date: Wednesday, August 16th
- Session I: 9:00 am - 11:00 am
- Session II: 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Links will be shared prior to the event
Coming in September - Secondary Campus Book Talk!
Who Gets in and Why - A Year Inside College Admissions by Jeff Selingo
Please join Dr. Behr, Ms. Director, and Ms. Javeline for a new secondary book discussion. We're reading Jeff Selingo's bestseller, "Who Gets in and Why - A Year Inside College Admissions." Book talks will be scheduled in the fall, but you can get a head start and add it to your reading list now!
Spotlight College of the Month
SUNY Geneseo
Founded in 1871, SUNY Geneseo is a premier public liberal arts college. Nationally recognized for excellence and value in the liberal arts, Geneseo is known for its exceptional faculty, its welcoming atmosphere, and its reputation for producing successful alumni. SUNY Geneseo is a distinctive public liberal arts college that welcomes and inspires students to develop their knowledge and skills to build a better world.
Located on 220 acres in the historic Village of Geneseo, and a short drive from Rochester and Buffalo, Geneseo offers a warm environment for learning and discovery. The campus embodies the classic aesthetic of Northeastern colleges with brick walkways, shade trees, and ivy-draped buildings. Geneseo offers a vibrant campus life with clubs for any interest. There are 180 clubs to choose from! Division III athletics and club sports are also offered.
Research and internship opportunities round out the Geneseo experience. Want to learn more? Click here.
College Information
Towson University College 101 Virtual Series
‘College 101’ Virtual Workshops
Learn from our expert admissions team as we help you navigate your undergraduate college search and application process.
· June 6, 6 p.m. — How to Search for a College
Register Here
· June 27, 6 p.m. — Making the Most of Your Campus Visit
Register Here
· July 25, 6 p.m. — Financial Aid 101
Register Here
· August 29, 6 p.m. — Admissions Myth Debunking
Register Here
SUNY Spring College Fairs
The State University of New York (SUNY) has announced its spring college fair schedule. Click here for information and to register.
Summer Opportunities
Job Opportunity at The Village Club of Sands Point
The Village Club of Sands Point invites you to join their team as a Summer Day Camp Counselor!
This summer we will be running camp at The Village Club of Sands Point from July 5 to August 11. For our Camp Counselor positions, salary is $16/hr, potential increase with experience. Counselors must be at least 16 years or older by the start of camp to join our summer staff team.
As a company, KE Camps strives to hire energetic and creative individuals for our summer staff. This opportunity will give your students a chance to not only make some extra income during the summer, but also allows them to work in a non-traditional and FUN! setting.
If any of your students are interested in pursuing this role, please have them visit this link to apply directly online! I have also attached a flyer that you’re welcome to distribute. Please let me know if you have any questions as you review this opportunity.
*We may have Lifeguard positions available. Please click this link to see all open opportunities!
Thank you!
North Shore University Hospital - High School Short-Term Shadowing Program
The High School Short Term Shadowing Program at North Shore University Hospital is designed to expose high school students to various careers in healthcare. Areas include Engineering, Environmental Services, Human Resources, Material Operations, Nurse/Registered Nurse/Nurse Practitioner, Nutrition & Dietary, Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy/Speech Therapy, Patient and Family Centered Care/Patient Experience/Guest Services, Pharmacy, Physician Associate (PA), Physician/ Surgeon, Quality Management, Security & Transport (Patient/Visitor).
This program runs from August 1 - August 31st. You must review the required documents by clicking on this link.
Legislator Josh Lafazan's Summer 2023 Government Internship Program
Government Internship Program
Office of Joshua A. Lafazan
Nassau County Legislature, District 18
We are excited to welcome students to our Summer 2023 Internship Program! Students will assist Legislator Lafazan's Office to improve Nassau County for all who call it home. From communicating with constituents to facilitating county events, we have a full agenda to achieve our goals. Click here or on the link below for information and to apply.
Summer Exploration Opportunities at North Shore University Hospital
North Shore University Hospital is offering students an opportunity to explore their career interests. The Nursing Exploration Program and Dietetics and Culinary Exploration Programs are offered to high School students who are currently in their junior year, and will be seniors in Fall 2023. All completed application documents, essay & reference letter must be received by 5pm on March 31, 2023. Click the links below for more information and to apply.
Barry Tech/Hofstra Summer Camps Announcement
These summer programs are open for students going into 7th- 10th grade and it is a great way for students to spend two weeks immersed in programs that are offered during the school the year here at Barry Tech.
As you will see on the flyer, we are having a summer camp Open House here at Barry Tech on Thursday March 2nd starting at 5:30 PM for any families that may be interested.
Career Information
Mid-Island Y JCC Summer Job Opportunity
Riverhead Building Supply wants YOU to join their team!
Grow your career with a company that cares about rewarding great work ethic, leadership, and skill development that keeps you engaged and fulfilled every day. You’ll receive a competitive total compensation package that will provide you with the support you need to thrive both inside and outside of work. For more information, visit Riverhead Building Supply.
Methodize (formerly Method Test Prep)
Are you interested in getting a quick sense of where your son or daughter stands as far as the SAT and ACT? Port Washington provides all families with access to Methodize, a learning tool that includes an SAT and ACT Evaluation Test. Students take short (15 to 25 minute) sections and get an accurate sense of where they stand.
Click on the QR code to activate your son or daughter's Methodize account. Again, there is no cost to the family; the district is already providing this program to all students.
Once you activate the account, click on the SAT or ACT course and scroll down to "Evaluation Test" to begin the diagnostic.
In addition to full SAT and ACT prep courses, Methodize also provides a Financial Literacy course, an Academic Success course, vocabulary builder module, and more!
Naviance Single Sign-On Update/Login for Students
Some of you have noticed that your Naviance username has changed. A system update has completed the Naviance/Clever integration. Students must now log in using Clever to access Naviance. Click the Portnet Bookmarks folder (found in the upper left corner of your screen) and click the Clever button. You will see an image that looks like the one below. Then click the Naviance button and voila! You are in!
Parents will still use their username and passwords - Single-sign on access is only for students with Portnet accounts.
Twilight Program at Schreiber High School
Schreiber Twilight alternative high school is our new partnership with Nassau BOCES. Twilight provides an alternative setting in the late afternoon for students who may benefit from a smaller, more structured environment. Twilight provides students the tools to either return successfully to Schreiber during the day or to complete their high school requirements through Twilight. Twilight students are prepared for post-secondary education or employment upon graduation.
Students attend this Regents-based program in the late afternoon/early evening. Students receive strong academic and social-emotional support, as classes are small and largely student-focused.
Students can enroll in Twilight at any time. of our counseling and administrative team are currently reviewing and meeting with students to discuss Twilight. If you have any questions about Twilight, or if you believe your student might be a candidate, please contact your student's counselor.
Passport for Good
Paul D. Schreiber is a Passport for Good school!
Passport For Good is a mobile-friendly web-based platform that simplifies, recognizes, and celebrates your engagement outside of the classroom. It allows you to journal and verify your community service, career development, and participation in extracurricular activities.
To make this transition a success, we need your help. You must first register for Passport For Good - Click the flyer below for the link and QR code to register. Once your account is activated, you are ready to begin using Passport For Good!
Some of Schreiber's clubs and groups have switched to using Passport For Good, logging their community service and career development hours directly within the platform.
Ask your Counselor if you have questions about Passport For Good.
Articles
How Parents Can Actually Help Teens Navigate Social Media
By Catherine Pearson
This article appeared in the New York Times on May 15, 2023
On Tuesday, the United States surgeon general, Dr. Vivek H. Murthy, issued a public advisorywarning of the risks of social media use to young people. Last week, the American Psychological Association echoed these concerns by issuing its first-ever guidance on social media use in adolescence, a roundup of 10 recommendations for educators, policymakers, tech companies and parents aimed at helping teens engage with the technology in a safe and positive way.
The group said that adolescents should be monitored for “problematic” social media use and that it was important to minimize teens’ exposure to cyberbullying, online hate and content that causes them to compare their physical appearance with the appearance of others. It also emphasized the importance of teaching teens digital citizenship and literacy.
At the same time, the A.P.A. acknowledged that tech companies had a role to play in all of this, urging them to consider whether features such as endless scrolling and the “like” button were developmentally appropriate for teens.
But as all parents know, the burden primarily falls on them to monitor and educate their children and to stay on top of technology that is quickly changing. And trying to do this can feel frustrating and ineffective.
“As both a parent and psychologist, I recognize that the demands placed on parents are above and beyond what we have the capacity to do,” said Laura Gray, a psychologist at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C.
The New York Times reached out to Dr. Gray and seven other experts — many of whom are parents of tweens or teens — to ask a simple question: What is one practical strategy that caregivers can use with their kids, starting now, to help mitigate the harms of social media?
The A.P.A. recommended that adults closely monitor social media use in children ages 10 to 14. Dr. Gray agreed that this was a critical window for parents to teach good habits.
A family might decide, for instance, that a child will be limited to just one app at first, she said, and that for the first six months or so, the parents will review posts and friend requests with their child. The goal is to provide hands-on scaffolding. As a mother of one tween and two younger children, Dr. Gray knows how difficult it is to provide that kind of intensive supervision. But taking even five minutes a day to review a kid's social media use is fine if that's what families have available, she said.
Parents should also make sure that all accounts are set to private, Girard Kelly, the head of privacy for Common Sense Media, said, adding that social media apps “are designed to learn everything they can about their users so they can push personalized content that keeps kids and teens hooked.”
No screens after 9 p.m.
Or really, no screens at a time of night that will affect your teen’s ability to get at least eight or nine hours of sleep, said Mitch Prinstein, the chief science officer at the A.P.A. and a co-chair of the advisory panel that wrote the new guidance.
“We know now that it’s the No. 1 reason for disrupted sleep,” he said, “and we now have science to saydisrupted sleep is literally affecting the size of teens’ brains.”
No smartphones or tablets in the bedroom overnight.
Just about every expert interviewed emphasized how important this was, including Jean Twenge, a psychologist who has spent years sounding the alarm over the ways social media has contributed to the erosion of teenage mental health.
“We know from so much research on sleep that people do not sleep as well, or as long, if their phone is within arm’s reach,” she said.
Dr. Twenge recommended that all family members put their phones in a common space for the night — a practice her own family follows.
Dr. Gray added that teens might push back against these types of boundaries, particularly if parents were trying to enforce them retroactively. In those cases, “it’s helpful to be able to provide some rationale around, ‘This is why we believe this is a loving parent response to you,’” she said. “Even though they may still have an emotional reaction.”
The human brain develops from the back to the front, explained Dr. Frances Jensen, the chair of the department of neurology at the University of Pennsylvania and the author of “The Teenage Brain.” The middle part of the brain, which she describes as the “social brain,” is “actively constructing itself during adolescence” — and is the most susceptible to outside influences. The front part of the brain, however, which manages things like decision making, risk mitigation and emotional regulation, develops well into a person’s late 20s. So teens “are really acting with a very highly active social brain, which is making them very vulnerable to peer pressure” as well as to novelty seeking, she said. And they are not getting feedback from the front of their brain that tells them to stop and take a beat.
Dr. Jensen urged parents to talk to their kids about these brain changes and how they make them particularly vulnerable to some of the more negative effects of social media. All of the content, feedback and stimulation available online “is highly accessible to kids right when their social brain is developing,” she said, describing it as a “perfect storm.”
That question is particularly effective at gauging whether a teen’s social media use has become problematic, said Jeff Hancock, the founding director of the Stanford Social Media Lab. He suggested opening with something like: “Hey, I sometimes have a hard time not being on my phone all the time. Do you ever struggle with that?”
If your teen says yes, that presents an opening to talk about management strategies. For instance, Mr. Hancock is teaching his 12-year-old (who thus far only has access to TikTok videos on YouTube) to set a timer for herself. She is working through what it feels like to take responsibility for her screen time, and figuring out how to cope when the timer dings and she wants to stay online.
Though the A.P.A.’s call to limit teens’ use of social media to compare themselves to others might feel nebulous, one approach is to teach teens to do a simple gut check by asking themselves, “Are any of these accounts making me feel worse about myself or about my body?” said Dr. Jason Nagata, an adolescent medicine specialist with the UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital San Francisco, who specializes in eating disorder treatment.
Though the negative effects of social media on girls’ body image have been widely discussed, Dr. Nagata emphasized that parents should encourage this kind of practice with children of both genders.
“Even though it’s less understood and less covered, boys are also susceptible to these influences,” he said. “Studies have shown that Instagram use in boys and men is associated with meal skipping, disordered eating, dissatisfaction with muscles and even use of anabolic steroids.”
The experts emphasized that it was important for parents to foster an open dialogue around social media throughout their kids’ lives. Teens — particularly those who are older and may have more online freedom — often assume their parents are asking questions about their social media use because they intend to crack down or take their phones away, said Becky Lois, a child and adolescent psychologist at Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at N.Y.U. Langone.
“The approach is really critical here,” she said. “We need to help kids understand why we’re asking the question. It’s not accusatory or critical or judgmental.” Tell them very clearly that you are asking because you are curious about this aspect of their life, not because they are in trouble, Dr. Lois recommended.
She is also a realist. Teens may not be honest or want to talk to you about it, she said, but a parent’s job is to keep asking.
Dr. Lois added that it’s important “to connect with them to get to know this part of their life, and also to make sure they know that it is a safe space to talk about what they’re seeing.”
Catherine Pearson is a reporter for the Well section of The Times, covering families and relationships.
The Journal of Higher Education
The Search for Prospective Students is About to Change
Ever wonder how colleges/universities obtain students' information? Even if you know, you'll want to read this article by Eric Hoover for The Chronicle of Higher Education. The process is demystified, however; upcoming changes may create some confusion. Your counselors are here to guide you through the process!