Bolingbrook School First in State to Receive National Counseling Honor

The American School Counselor Association has awarded its RAMP (Recognized ASCA Model Program) designation to the Brooks Middle School counseling department.

Brooks is the first middle school in Illinois to receive the nationwide organization’s model program designation which is awarded to schools that operate programs that align with the rigorous ASCA national model for student success. Since the program was instituted in 2004, just 400 schools nationwide have received the RAMP designation

“The American School Counselor Association believes that the implementation of comprehensive counseling programs in all schools across the nation is a vital step in the transformation of our education system,” said Jill Cook, Assistant Director of the American School Counselor Association.

Brooks officials attribute the success of the counseling program to clear and precise vision and mission statements.

The Vision: “The students of Brooks Middle School have the power, intelligence and desire to meet the high expectations of 21st century learning. In partnership with families, the school, and community, our comprehensive school counseling program creates well-prepared students who have the knowledge, character and desire to develop into successful and contributing members of society. Students are provided a progressive, challenging, safe and nurturing learning community where they cultivate their skills and values. In response to the strength and rigor of academic offerings, all students are college and/or career ready as well as responsible citizens who are able achieve their goals and find fulfillment in their life’s work.”

The Mission: “is to recognize and meet the academic, career and social needs of our diverse student population. By working with all stakeholders, the counselors will help each student discover how to become independent, engaged learners and develop the necessary skills to reach their individual long term goals. Our programs are designed to addresses the needs of all students, promote a caring and safe environment and create engaging curriculum that encourages the social, emotional, and intellectual growth of each student. We embrace student uniqueness and customize educational experiences in order to enhance capabilities, close achievement gaps among high and low performing groups while supporting the development of personal success at its highest level.

“A big bravo to guidance counselors Kris Reenstjerna, Demea Richards-Scott and Danielle McDermott as well as Assistant Principal Christina Sylvester and former Assistant Principal Jason Pascavage,” said Brooks Principal Dr. Keith Wood. “Their work has made a tremendous impact on the social, emotional, and academic supports we provide to our students. Great work indeed. This is a proud, proud day.”