School Counseling & Freshman Advisory
Starting high school is exciting, but can sometimes be overwhelming. At Notre Dame, we have resources in place to ensure a smooth transition for all students. All first-year students are assigned a dedicated school counselor who is an expert at the transition issues that freshman face. Our Freshman Advisory Program partners faculty, staff, student leaders, and peer counselors to ensure that all freshmen receive expert guidance as they navigate their first year at ND.
Sarah Lauer, Freshman Counselor
The first year of high school is a formative time of development, transition, and change. As your child's counselor, Sarah will be there to support them every step of the way. She had a professor in college who said to her, "Sarah, when you step outside of your comfort zone, that is when the magic happens." That sentiment had a profound impact on Sarah's life, and she often shares it with her students as she encourages them to experience all that a Notre Dame High School education has to offer.
Our staff includes an administrator and three full-time school counselors, all of whom assist students, parents, and faculty in identifying and resolving academic and personal issues. Together we work to create an effective learning environment for each student.
Below is an outline of some of the services offered to first-year students as they are guided to becoming the best versions of themselves.
Academic, College, Career Counseling:
Our Academic, College, and Career Counseling program focuses on developing essential skills such as organization, time management, self-advocacy, and effective communication, while also empowering students to build confidence in their unique strengths and leadership abilities.
We guide students in setting goals, monitoring their progress, and understanding the college admissions process as a comprehensive four-year journey. Additionally, we provide support through the registration and administration of PSATs and assist freshmen with registering for their sophomore year, ensuring a strong foundation for their academic and career success.
Social and Emotional Counseling:
Our Social and Emotional Counseling program is dedicated to fostering students' growth as active members of our school community by promoting resilience, empathy, and strong personal relationships. We help students manage stress and anxiety, maintain positive social behavior, and build character traits such as kindness, honesty, and integrity. The program encourages positive attitudes toward mental health while addressing critical areas like bullying, suicide, and substance abuse prevention. Additionally, we provide support through grief counseling, as well as assistance for students dealing with anxiety and depression, ensuring their overall well-being and personal development.
Meet the Freshman Advisory Team
Rita Benney Academic Center
One of the hallmarks of a Notre Dame education is the fact that we know our students well, and that is reflected in our teaching. Walk into any classroom at Notre Dame and you will see students and faculty who are engaged with the subject at hand, but more importantly, with one another.
When Notre Dame students do need some extra support, we have the needed resources in place. The Rita Benney Academic Center offers individual and group tutoring by academic area, workshops on test preparation, time management, organization, and study techniques. Students with documented learning differences are provided services through regularly scheduled sessions.
Meet the Team
