The duPont Manual Counseling Department is a dedicated team committed to student success. They provide comprehensive support, including academic advising, mental health services, and college/career preparation, fostering a dynamic learning community.
Mission and Vision
The mission of duPont Manual counselors is to provide a comprehensive, developmental program addressing academic, college/career, and personal/social growth. Their vision is to foster a dynamic, diverse learning community focused on excellence and student success.
2.1 Mission Statement
The mission of the duPont Manual High School Counseling Department is to provide a comprehensive, developmental counseling program. This program addresses the academic, college/career, and personal/social development of all students. The counselors strive to create a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and diverse learning community. They focus on rigorous academic, technical, and artistic college-preparatory magnet programs. The mission emphasizes fostering a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and personally. By addressing the unique needs of each student, the counselors aim to prepare them for success in their chosen paths. The program is designed to be equitable and inclusive, ensuring all students have access to the resources and guidance they need to achieve their goals. Through collaboration with teachers, families, and the community, the counseling team works to empower students to reach their full potential.
2.2 Vision for Student Success
The vision of duPont Manual High School is to provide a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and diverse learning community. This environment focuses on rigorous academic, technical, and artistic college-preparatory magnet programs. The school takes pride in its continuing excellence, diversity, and tradition. The vision for student success emphasizes preparing students for college and beyond, fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity. By offering equitable opportunities, the school aims to empower students to achieve their full potential. The counseling department plays a key role in this vision by providing personalized support and resources. Through academic advising, college/career guidance, and personal/social development, counselors help students navigate their educational journey. The ultimate goal is to create a supportive and inspiring environment where every student can thrive and succeed in their chosen path. This vision reflects the school’s commitment to excellence and its dedication to fostering a bright future for all students.
Counseling Department Staff
The Counseling Department Staff at duPont Manual includes dedicated counselors and support personnel. Notable team members include Jessika Benson, Christina Brockman, Laura Smythe, Amy Meeron, Jasmine Romans, Ryan Hite, and Christy Brockman. They can be reached at (502) 485-8241.
3.1 Meet the Counselors
The counseling team at duPont Manual High School is comprised of experienced professionals dedicated to student success. Notable counselors include Jessika Benson, who works with 10th–12th grade students (L–Z), and Christina Brockman, focusing on 10th–12th grade students (A–K). Laura Smythe supports freshmen (A–Z), while Amy Meeron and Christy Brockman contribute to the team’s efforts. Additional staff members like Jasmine Romans and Ryan Hite ensure comprehensive support. These counselors bring diverse expertise, from academic guidance to mental health support, ensuring students thrive academically and personally. They are accessible via email and phone at (502) 485-8241, offering personalized assistance to students and families. Their commitment to equity and student well-being reflects duPont Manual’s mission to foster a dynamic, inclusive learning environment.
3.2 Roles of Support Staff
The support staff at duPont Manual High School play a vital role in ensuring the counseling department runs efficiently. They assist with administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments, managing records, and communicating with students and families. Mental health practitioners, like the Licensed Clinical Social Worker on staff, provide therapy services and self-care strategies to students. Administrative assistants handle day-to-day operations, including answering calls and organizing resources. Their work enables counselors to focus on direct student support. Additionally, support staff often serve as liaisons between students, teachers, and parents, fostering collaboration. Their contributions are essential in creating a supportive environment that promotes student well-being and success. By handling behind-the-scenes tasks, they allow counselors to concentrate on academic, college/career, and personal/social development initiatives.
Services Offered
The duPont Manual Counseling Department offers comprehensive services, including academic advising, college/career guidance, and mental health support. They provide individual and group counseling, stress management workshops, and strategies to enhance interpersonal relationships and personal growth.
4.1 Academic Advising
The duPont Manual Counseling Department provides comprehensive academic advising to ensure students’ success. Counselors work closely with students to create personalized academic plans, helping them choose appropriate courses and track their progress toward graduation. They also assist with GPA monitoring, ensuring students meet academic requirements and explore opportunities for advancement. The department emphasizes a student-centered approach, offering resources and tools to help students achieve their academic goals. Counselors are available to address concerns, provide guidance on academic challenges, and support students in making informed decisions about their educational paths. This personalized support fosters a culture of academic excellence and prepares students for college and beyond. By focusing on individual needs, the counseling team at duPont Manual ensures every student has the tools and guidance necessary to thrive academically.
4.2 College and Career Guidance
The duPont Manual Counseling Department offers robust college and career guidance to prepare students for their post-secondary journeys. Counselors provide personalized support to help students explore college options, complete applications, and secure financial aid. They also offer resources for standardized test preparation, scholarship applications, and career assessments to align students’ interests with potential pathways. The department hosts workshops and one-on-one sessions to guide students through the college application process, ensuring they meet deadlines and present their best selves to admissions committees. Additionally, counselors collaborate with local businesses and colleges to provide career exploration opportunities, helping students identify their strengths and interests. By fostering a culture of preparedness and exploration, the duPont Manual Counseling team equips students with the tools and confidence to make informed decisions about their futures. This comprehensive approach ensures students are well-prepared for the transition to college and beyond.
4.3 Personal and Social Support
The duPont Manual Counseling Department provides extensive personal and social support to foster students’ emotional and interpersonal growth. Counselors offer individual and group counseling sessions to address mental health concerns, stress management, and relationship-building skills. They also organize workshops on topics such as self-care, conflict resolution, and healthy communication. The department emphasizes creating a safe and inclusive environment where students feel supported in navigating personal challenges. Additionally, counselors collaborate with mental health practitioners to provide resources for students struggling with anxiety, depression, or other emotional difficulties. By promoting social-emotional learning, the counseling team helps students develop resilience, empathy, and positive relationships. This holistic approach ensures students receive the guidance they need to thrive academically, socially, and personally during their high school experience and beyond.
Contact Information and Resources
The duPont Manual High School Counseling Office is located at 120 West Lee Street, Louisville, Kentucky 40208. The office can be reached by phone at (502) 485-8241. Counselors are available to assist students and families with a variety of needs, providing resources and support for academic, personal, and social development. For specific inquiries, students and parents can contact counselors via email. For example, Jessika Benson (jessika.benson@jefferson.kyschools.us) and Laura Smythe (laura.smythe@jefferson.kyschools.us) are among the dedicated counselors available to help. Additional resources, such as self-care strategies and course selection guidance, can be found on the school’s counseling website. Students can also access services through the Google sign-in portal for personalized support. The counseling team is committed to ensuring all students have the tools and information needed to succeed.
Mental Health and Wellness
The duPont Manual Counseling Department prioritizes mental health and wellness, offering comprehensive support to students. A licensed mental health practitioner provides therapy services, having previously worked at Seven Counties Services for over a decade. Students can access self-care strategies and resources through the counseling office. Counselors also offer individual and group counseling sessions, focusing on stress management and interpersonal relationship skills. Workshops are conducted to equip students with tools to navigate social challenges and personal growth. The department emphasizes creating a safe and supportive environment, ensuring students’ emotional well-being is addressed alongside academic goals. By fostering resilience and emotional intelligence, duPont Manual aims to empower students to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
Racial Equity and Diversity
duPont Manual High School is committed to racial equity and diversity, actively supporting Black students, families, and staff. The school’s racial equity statement emphasizes that Black lives matter and pledges to challenge inequities, improve outcomes, and prioritize the safety and well-being of BIPOC students. As part of Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS), duPont Manual integrates district-wide initiatives to foster an inclusive environment. The counseling department plays a key role in promoting diversity by addressing the unique needs of all students, regardless of background. Through training, workshops, and collaborative efforts, the school strives to create a culture of equity and belonging. Counselors work closely with students and families to ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities, reflecting the school’s pride in its diverse and inclusive community.
Academic Support Initiatives
The duPont Manual Counseling Department offers academic support initiatives, including course selection guidance and GPA monitoring. These programs help students achieve academic success and prepare for future endeavors with personalized counselor assistance.
8.1 Course Selection Guidance
The duPont Manual Counseling Department provides comprehensive course selection guidance to ensure students make informed decisions about their academic paths. Counselors work closely with students to create personalized plans that align with their academic strengths, interests, and future goals. They offer resources and tools to help students navigate the course catalog, understand prerequisites, and explore advanced placement or elective options. Additionally, the department hosts workshops and one-on-one meetings to guide students and parents through the course selection process. The counselors emphasize the importance of balancing academic rigor with extracurricular opportunities to foster well-rounded development. By providing tailored support, the counseling team helps students build a strong foundation for success in high school and beyond. This initiative ensures that every student is prepared to meet their full potential and achieve their educational aspirations.
8.2 GPA Tracking and Monitoring
The duPont Manual Counseling Department plays a crucial role in GPA tracking and monitoring to ensure students maintain academic success. Counselors regularly review student progress, identifying areas where additional support may be needed. They provide individualized guidance to help students set and achieve academic goals, offering strategies to improve study habits and time management. The department also conducts workshops on understanding GPA calculations and the importance of academic performance for college admissions. Parents and guardians are encouraged to collaborate with counselors to monitor their child’s progress. By fostering a proactive approach to academic monitoring, the counseling team helps students stay on track to meet graduation requirements and achieve their full potential. This support system is designed to empower students with the tools and confidence needed for long-term success. Regular check-ins and progress reports ensure students remain motivated and focused on their academic journey.
College and Career Readiness
The duPont Manual Counseling Department prepares students for post-secondary success through college and career guidance. Counselors assist with standardized test preparation, career exploration, and navigating the college application process.
9.1 Standardized Test Preparation
The duPont Manual Counseling Department offers robust support for standardized test preparation, ensuring students are well-equipped for success. Counselors provide workshops and one-on-one sessions to help students navigate the challenges of the SAT, ACT, and AP exams. Resources such as practice tests, study guides, and online tools are readily available to aid in preparation. Additionally, the department emphasizes the importance of time management and stress reduction techniques to help students perform at their best. Individualized plans are created to address each student’s unique needs, ensuring they are prepared for the rigors of standardized testing. The counselors also collaborate with teachers to align test preparation with academic curriculum, fostering a cohesive approach to student success. By prioritizing test readiness, the duPont Manual Counseling Department empowers students to achieve their academic and career goals with confidence.
9.2 Scholarship and Financial Aid Guidance
The duPont Manual Counseling Department provides extensive guidance on scholarships and financial aid to help students achieve their post-secondary goals. Counselors offer workshops, one-on-one sessions, and online resources to assist students in navigating the complex process of applying for scholarships and completing the FAFSA. They also provide personalized support in researching and identifying scholarship opportunities tailored to individual student needs. The department emphasizes the importance of meeting deadlines and understanding eligibility criteria to maximize opportunities for financial assistance. Additionally, counselors collaborate with local organizations and colleges to bring in guest speakers who share insights on securing funding for higher education. By equipping students with the tools and knowledge necessary to pursue scholarships and financial aid, the duPont Manual Counseling Department plays a pivotal role in making post-secondary education accessible and affordable for all students.
Personal and Social Development
The duPont Manual counselors foster personal and social growth through individual and group sessions, addressing mental health, stress management, and interpersonal skills to create a supportive school environment.
10.1 Social Skills Development
The counselors at duPont Manual High School prioritize social skills development through targeted programs and activities. They offer group sessions and workshops focused on improving communication, empathy, and conflict resolution. These initiatives help students build positive relationships and navigate social challenges effectively. By fostering a supportive environment, the counseling team encourages collaboration and mutual respect among students. Their efforts aim to equip students with the interpersonal skills necessary for success in both academic and real-world settings. Through these programs, students learn to express themselves confidently, manage disagreements constructively, and develop a sense of community. The counselors also provide individualized support to address specific social challenges, ensuring every student feels valued and empowered to thrive socially and academically.
10.2 Conflict Resolution Strategies
The counselors at duPont Manual High School implement effective conflict resolution strategies to foster a harmonious school environment. They provide workshops and one-on-one sessions to teach students how to manage disagreements constructively. These sessions focus on active listening, empathy, and problem-solving techniques. Counselors also mediate peer conflicts, helping students understand different perspectives and find mutually beneficial solutions. Additionally, they promote restorative practices to repair relationships and build trust within the school community. By equipping students with these skills, the counseling team encourages a culture of respect and cooperation. Their efforts ensure that students can navigate conflicts in a healthy and productive manner, contributing to a positive and inclusive learning atmosphere. Through these initiatives, duPont Manual counselors empower students to resolve disputes effectively and maintain strong interpersonal relationships.
Crisis Intervention and Support
The duPont Manual Counseling Department provides immediate and compassionate crisis intervention and support to students in need. Trained counselors and mental health practitioners are available to address emergencies, offering individual and group counseling sessions. They work closely with students, families, and staff to ensure a safe and supportive environment during difficult times. The team is equipped to handle a range of crises, from personal emergencies to school-wide incidents, with a focus on emotional stabilization and long-term recovery. Resources such as hotlines, referrals to external services, and coping strategies are also provided to help students navigate challenging situations. By prioritizing mental health and well-being, the counseling team at duPont Manual ensures that students receive the care and guidance they need to thrive. Their approach emphasizes resilience, empathy, and a commitment to fostering a supportive school community.
Community Partnerships and Collaborations
The duPont Manual Counseling Department actively engages in community partnerships to enhance student support and opportunities. Collaborations with local organizations, businesses, and mental health providers ensure access to resources such as mentorship programs, internships, and mental health services. These partnerships often focus on college and career readiness, providing students with real-world learning experiences. The school also works closely with Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) initiatives, ensuring alignment with district-wide goals for student success. By fostering these relationships, the counseling team bridges the gap between education and community, creating a network of support that extends beyond the classroom. Such collaborations not only enrich students’ educational journeys but also prepare them for future challenges and opportunities. The duPont Manual community remains committed to building strong, lasting partnerships that benefit all students.
Parent and Family Involvement
The duPont Manual Counseling Department strongly believes in the importance of parent and family involvement in students’ educational journeys. The department regularly hosts workshops, parent-teacher conferences, and informational sessions to keep families engaged and informed. These events cover topics such as college readiness, mental health resources, and academic planning. Parents are encouraged to collaborate with counselors to support their child’s success. The school also provides access to online resources, such as the student portal, to help families stay updated on their child’s progress. By fostering a partnership between home and school, the counseling team ensures that students receive consistent support in achieving their goals. This collaborative approach not only strengthens the school-community connection but also empowers families to play an active role in their child’s education and personal growth.
Student Activities and Engagement
The duPont Manual Counseling Department actively promotes student engagement through various activities and programs. Counselors collaborate with student organizations to foster participation in clubs, sports, and community service events. These initiatives help students develop social skills, build relationships, and explore interests outside the classroom. The department also organizes workshops on stress management and interpersonal communication to support students’ personal growth. By encouraging involvement in extracurricular activities, counselors help students create a balanced and fulfilling high school experience. This focus on engagement not only enhances students’ academic performance but also prepares them for future challenges. The counseling team works closely with teachers and administrators to ensure that all students have opportunities to thrive both academically and socially. Through these efforts, duPont Manual cultivates a vibrant and inclusive school community.
Recognizing Counselor Contributions
The counselors at duPont Manual High School are widely recognized for their dedication and impact on student success. Their hard work and commitment to fostering academic, personal, and social growth have earned them appreciation from students, parents, and the community. The school often publicly acknowledges the contributions of its counseling team, celebrating their efforts in guiding students through challenges and helping them achieve their goals. Counselors like Jessika Benson and Laura Smythe have been praised for their personalized support and innovative approaches to student development. Their ability to create a supportive and inclusive environment has made a significant difference in the lives of many students. The school takes pride in its counselors’ dedication, as they play a vital role in shaping the future of duPont Manual students. Their contributions are essential to the school’s mission of excellence and equity in education.
New Hires and Staff Development
duPont Manual High School is committed to enhancing its counseling team by welcoming new hires and investing in staff development. In recent years, the school has added new counselors and support staff to better serve its growing student body. For instance, the 2021-22 school year saw the arrival of a new counselor and additional ECE assistants, strengthening the department’s capacity to provide comprehensive support. The school prioritizes professional growth, offering ongoing training and resources to ensure counselors stay updated on best practices in academic, college/career, and personal/social development. This focus on staff development ensures that the counseling team remains equipped to address the evolving needs of students. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, duPont Manual ensures its counselors are well-prepared to guide students toward success. These efforts reflect the school’s dedication to maintaining a high standard of educational and personal support for all students.
In conclusion, the duPont Manual High School Counseling Department plays a pivotal role in fostering student success through its comprehensive support services. From academic advising to personal and social development, the counselors are dedicated to ensuring students thrive academically and personally. Their commitment to mental health, racial equity, and community partnerships underscores their holistic approach to education. By providing resources, guidance, and a supportive environment, the counselors empower students to achieve their full potential. The department’s focus on continuous improvement and staff development further enhances its ability to meet the evolving needs of the student body. Ultimately, the efforts of duPont Manual counselors contribute significantly to the school’s reputation as a dynamic and inclusive learning community. Their dedication ensures that every student has the tools and support necessary to succeed in their educational journey and beyond.