High School Guidance Department in Paramus, New Jersey
Paramus Catholic High School is committed to cultivating a learning environment that supports the academic and spiritual well-being of our students. As a co-educational Catholic school in Paramus, New Jersey, we provide an inclusive, faith-based experience for every student, and our guidance department is integral in supporting this mission. Our counselors welcome the opportunity to get to know you and help you find ways to reach your goals for the future.
A Letter from the Director of Guidance
Dear Students and Parents,
It is an honor and privilege to introduce myself, Dr. Lucille Verina the newly appointed Director of Guidance at Paramus Catholic High School. My inspiration to lead is rooted in a deep conviction, joy, and sharing in the integral formation, faith, and education of young people.
The Director of Guidance works collaboratively with Guidance Counselors, Specialists, and Department Deans to meet the counseling, testing, and college placement needs of our students. The Guidance Department also maintains close communications with parents and teachers allowing the opportunity to develop a strong support network for our students.
The Paramus Catholic Guidance Department will be regularly updating information by the first Monday of each month, so please we encourage you to check for new information on Black Baud. Thank you for your dedication to our students and my sincere best to you and your families as we journey through our school year together.
Peace and All Good,
Dr. Lucille Verina
Director of Guidance
201-445-4466 Ext.151
Our High School Guidance Counselors
Our school guidance counselors work with young people to help them grow and learn throughout this pivotal phase of life. Each student is assigned a counselor as an incoming freshman to help ease their transition to Paramus Catholic High School. Students remain with the same counselor for all four years. Our department specializes in helping young people navigate everyday challenges. High school guidance counselor responsibilities encompass many aspects of the student experience, such as:
- Academic
- Emotional
- Intellectual
- Interpersonal
- Personal
Students meet with their guidance counselors at least twice per year but may meet more frequently as needed. These meetings are important in monitoring our students' academic progress and providing personalized support. We believe the student-counselor relationship is integral to the success of our learners.
A guidance counselor may also assist students and their families. They can recommend therapists and psychiatrists for students with long-term mental health issues. Parents and guardians can also look to our counselors to find ways to better support their children as they grow.
Receive Year-by-Year Support
Guidance counselors help Paramus Catholic High School students select courses, meet graduation requirements, find classes that colleges typically consider, and much more. They also facilitate meetings between parents/guardians and teachers as requested. Throughout the student journey, our assistance may evolve but will remain a valuable resource for every learner. Students can expect the following guidance department services:
- Freshmen: Counselors help new students become accustomed to our school and prioritize meetings if interim reports suggest the student is struggling.
- Sophomores/juniors: Counselors continue to monitor student progress, and meetings are scheduled to discuss higher education and other post-high school plans.
- Seniors: Students work with a counselor to discuss college or trade school options and work on applications. The guidance department also assists parents during this transition.
Meeting with a guidance counselor is necessary for students who wish to change their class schedule – an adjustment that requires final approval from the school principal. A counselor can also help you find the extracurricular student activities, clubs, and service projects that suit you best. Peer tutoring is also available.
Please note: At the request of a parent or guardian, our guidance department can provide accommodations to the curriculum for an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 service plan. Administration approval is required.
College and Career Guidance for High School Students
Paramus Catholic High School's guidance department utilizes innovative, web-based tools to help students and parents create a plan for after graduation. Whether it's applying to colleges and universities or entering the workforce, your counselor can steer you through this process. We also offer financial aid workshops, an annual college fair, and other programs. Two of the primary tools used by our department to provide high school career guidance include:
Taking the time to meet the unique needs of each student, the guidance department is responsible for ensuring they complete the required standardized tests at the appropriate times during high school. This includes the following:
- Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT)
- Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)
- American College Test (ACT)
Counselors can suggest study strategies to help you excel in these and other examinations. Additionally, we provide information about the NCAA Eligibility Center to student-athletes and Selective Service System (SSS) registration.
Learn More About How We Support Our Students
At Paramus Catholic High School, the guidance department is committed to the success of our students and helping each person make the most of their education. Our Catholic school in Paramus, NJ, is part of the Archdiocese of Newark. For more information about our school or to schedule a meeting with a high school guidance counselor, contact us today.
Dr. Lucille Verina
Director of Guidance
Email: [email protected]
ext. 151
Aaron Mandel
School Counselor
email: [email protected]
ext. 156
Susan Kusnic
Guidance Office Coordinator
e-mail: [email protected]
ext. 131