School Counseling
News from the School Counselor's Office: Mark G. Hill, School Counselor
Phone: (860)628-3379 ext. 12203
The School Counseling department at Karen Smith Academy is dedicated to providing services that assist each student in reaching his/her maximum academic and personal potential. Our goal is to assist students in developing decision-making skills that will enable them to make responsible choices regarding their education, careers, and personal lives.
The school counselor operates under an "open door" policy. Students and parents are encouraged to meet with the school counselor regarding any concern that they may have. Working together as a team will ensure a successful school year.
Class placement is based on the number of credits previously earned. The minimum requirements for official class standing and promotion are:
| Standing | Requirement Class of 2021-2022 |
Requirement Class of 2023 & beyond |
| Freshman | Completion of grade 8 | Completion of grade 8 |
| Sophomore | 4 credits | 5.5 credits |
| Junior | 9 credits | 11.5 credits |
| Senior | 15 credits | 18 credits |
| Graduate | 22 credits | 25 credits |
Work Experience Credit: Documented proof (through either pay stubs or a letter from employer) of 200 hours at the same employer will earn a student 1 elective credit.
Community Service Credit: Documented proof (through a letter) of 50 hours of community service performed totaling 50 hours. Some hours may be earned by volunteering at the Karen Smith Academy. Students in previous years have performed community service at Bread for Life, Southington Community Services, Haunted Graveyard, Derynoski Elementary School, and through a wide variety of religious and civic groups.
Southington Safe School Tipline – 860-637-2006
Use this tipline to report bullying instances at school, on the bus or social media site.
It is important that your voice is heard AND you are helping the community.
SEE IT. HEAR IT. REPORT IT.
Naviance
Karen Smith Academy students and parents are encouraged to use the Naviance computer program to help with college searches, career interest inventories, personality type inventories, resume building, and scholarship information.
Students can get help with deciding which careers might bring the most satisfaction based on their interests. The website can be accessed at https://student.naviance.com/southington.
Students will need to enter their email address & password. If you have any questions, please see Mr. Hill.