Students are Prepared to Graduate
Laurel Springs’ credentialed school counselors ensure full-time students are well supported and prepared to graduate. Partnering with students and their families, our experienced school counselors strive to build lasting relationships as they continue to work with their students throughout their Upper School experience.
Our Upper School counselors teach grade-level specific seminar courses, which are a key component to the college preparatory process. These courses introduce students to college and life planning, help them prepare for standardized tests, and enhance their writing skills, decision-making strategies, time management, and academic integrity.
The Upper School counseling team delivers a series of live webinars each year on topics of interest to Upper School students and their families. Examples of webinar features include: planning for success in Upper School, time management, study skills, college admissions planning, digital literacy, and NCAA eligibility. As a part of the live presentations, students are able to ask questions and interact with their peers.
The Counseling team has been incredibly supportive of my son’s needs. I could not imagine him attending any other school. They are a great resource, understand the needs of the children with challenging schedules, and help make the college application process much easier for families.”
– Laurel Springs Parent
Academic Counseling
During scheduled meetings throughout a student’s school year, the Upper School counselor, student, and their family build and modify the student’s academic plan, or course schedule. The academic plan ensures that specific needs and goals are addressed by recommending personalized options based on the talents, skills, and educational experiences of each student. The Counseling Department also reviews academic plans with the learning team and makes any adjustments or recommendations for course selection to meet the students’ learning goals. Factors considered include honors or AP curriculum, as well as courses approved by the NCAA for student athletes, and University of California for UC and CSU a-g college admissions requirements.
College Counseling
We are committed to ensuring our students are well-prepared to enter the colleges and universities of their choice and have the information and support they need to navigate the college admissions process. The Laurel Springs college counseling program explores all the ins and outs of the college admissions process, including selecting the right college, preparing for college entrance exams, requesting testing accommodations, assisting with college applications, composing rich letters of recommendation, and providing parent resources and scholarship and financial aid resources. The program includes live webinars and individual coaching sessions with experienced counselors.
Counseling for Specialized College Plans
Our Upper School counselors provide advice tailored to the goals of each student. For example, student athletes receive guidance about NCAA eligibility and academic plans appropriate to their collegiate sports pursuits. For students who intend to apply to a public California university, school counselors assist with specific coaching about approved courses.