• Student Services

    The Student Services Department is committed to supporting the whole student—academically, socially, emotionally, and behaviorally—through a comprehensive network of programs and professionals. Each student is assigned a school counselor who serves as a consistent point of contact throughout their high school experience, guiding them through course planning, postsecondary exploration, college and career planning, and social-emotional development. Additional support is provided by school social workers, psychologists, and nurses who help address student needs both proactively and in times of crisis.

    Our team works collaboratively to remove barriers to learning, promote well-being, and ensure equitable access to support services. In addition to counseling and wellness services, Student Services oversees critical areas such as enrollment and residency, special education and Section 504, MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports), student records, and attendance. Together, we create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment that empowers every student to thrive during high school and beyond.

    Platforms that connect individuals with local resources for food, housing, healthcare, and other essential services:

    Student Services Team

    Student Services Director: The Student Services Director provides strategic leadership to ensure that critical school operations and student support systems function effectively and equitably. They oversee key areas, including the home/hospital program for medically excused students, the development and execution of the master schedule, and the coordination of all standardized testing to ensure smooth administration and compliance. The director also manages residency verification and enrollment processes, supervises grading and reporting systems to ensure accuracy and timeliness, and works closely with school leaders, staff, and families to ensure that all students receive the necessary resources and support to thrive.

    Student Services Department Chair: The department chair is a multifaceted leader who fulfills all the duties of a school counselor while simultaneously overseeing the entire guidance department. They directly support students with academic planning, career exploration, and social-emotional needs, including individual counseling and college guidance. Additionally, they supervise and mentor other counselors, ensuring program compliance with regulations. This role also involves developing and evaluating comprehensive counseling programs, as well as serving as a crucial liaison between the department and the school administration. Essentially, they play a crucial role in fostering student success and well-being through both direct service and strategic leadership.

    School Counselors: Each student is assigned a school counselor upon entering high school. Counselors provide individual support, help students create a four-year academic plan, and guide course selection. They also assist with college and career planning to ensure students are prepared for life after high school. They also provide personal and emotional support through individual meetings and small-group sessions. Students can schedule appointments during a free period as needed.

    School Social Workers: School social workers provide emotional and social support to students who may be facing personal challenges. They are often referred by school counselors and offer both individual and group counseling. They assist students with safety concerns, connect families with community resources, and serve as a liaison between students and outside mental health providers to ensure they receive the support they need.

    Title I Social Workers:  Title I Social Workers provide targeted social-emotional and behavioral support to students and families in Title I schools to help remove barriers to learning and promote student success. They offer individual and group counseling, connect families with community resources, and collaborate with staff to implement schoolwide support strategies. These positions are funded through Title I and are currently available only at Palatine High School and Hoffman Estates High School which qualify for Title I services. Examples of areas they assist with are food, housing, clothing, school supplies, medical and dental services, and transportation needs. 

    Postsecondary Counselors: Postsecondary counselors help students plan for life after high school by guiding them through college, career, and other future opportunities. They assist with college applications, scholarships, financial aid, and job training programs. They also provide resources and support to help students explore their interests and make informed decisions about their next steps.

    School Psychologists: School psychologists support students' learning, behavior, and emotional well-being. They are often referred by school counselors and provide both individual and group counseling. They evaluate students for special education services and 504 plans, assist with safety concerns, and work closely with families and teachers to develop support plans. They also serve as a liaison between students and outside mental health providers to ensure they receive the appropriate care.

    Student Support Specialists: Student Support Specialists provide social and emotional support to help students navigate challenges. They offer individual counseling, lead support groups, and provide crisis counseling when needed. They also help connect students and families with community resources for additional support.

    School Registrars: A high school registrar is an essential administrative professional responsible for managing and maintaining all student academic records. This includes processing enrollments, updating grades, generating transcripts, and verifying graduation requirements. They ensure the accuracy, confidentiality, and accessibility of student data, which is crucial for academic progression and future endeavors. Additionally, they ensure the timely recording of test scores and coordinate the transfer of student records for incoming and outgoing students, ensuring compliance with district and state requirements.

    Nurse: The school nurse supports the health and well-being of all students by providing direct care, managing chronic health conditions, and responding to medical emergencies during the school day. They monitor immunization compliance, maintain health records, and collaborate with families, staff, and healthcare providers to create and implement individual health plans. The nurse also promotes a healthy school environment through education, prevention efforts, and guidance on public health concerns.