Hamilton Heights recognized nationally for excellence in school counseling

Hamilton Heights elementary, middle, and high schools are among the 190 schools in 29 states to earn the prestigious Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) designation from the American School Counselor Association (ASCA).

The RAMP designation, valid for five years, signifies that Hamilton Heights schools have demonstrated a strong commitment to implementing a school counseling program aligned with the ASCA National Model. This model emphasizes a proactive and preventative approach, focusing on academic, career, and social/emotional development for every student.

This national recognition highlights the school’s commitment to providing a data-driven, comprehensive school counseling program that supports student success. It reflects the dedication of the school’s counseling team, administration, and community in fostering an environment where students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

“This designation is a testament to the strong collaboration among staff, students, families, and community stakeholders that Heights has at every level,” HHHS Director of School Counseling Jessi Cantlon said. “It’s one of the highest achievements a school can accomplish, and it showcases a team that is dedicated to all aspects of student growth.”

The Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) distinction is awarded to schools that align their counseling programs with the ASCA National Model framework, demonstrating a commitment to student success and overall school improvement. To earn the designation, each building’s counseling department submitted a detailed application outlining student outcome goals, data collection methods, lesson plans, collaboration efforts, and overall program effectiveness.

“We are proud of the work our counselors completed with our students, parents, and community members during an extensive process to achieve this well-deserved recognition,” HHMS Principal Dr. Bret Bailey. “Together with our stakeholders, they developed a comprehensive counseling plan that ensures we support all of our students.”

The schools will be officially honored at a special ceremony during the ASCA annual conference in California in July for making an exemplary commitment to their school counseling programs.