What is an Adjustment Counselor?

An Adjustment Counselor is a professional trained in social work or counseling and certified by the Massachusetts Department of Education as a Counselor. The Adjustment Counselor to help students with their personal, social and academic concerns. The Adjustment Counselor meets with students individually and in small groups. The Adjustment Counselor also works with teachers, administration and parents to help all students be successful in school.

Who is the Adjustment Counselor?

Ms. Linda Shannon is the Adjustment Counselor. Ms. Shannon has an MEd. in School Counseling and is a Certified School Adjustment Counselor (all levels) and Guidance Counselor (grades 5-12). She is also a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW).

Who refers students to the Adjustment Counselor?

School personnel ie. teachers, Assistant Principal, Principal and nurse all may refer a student to the Adjustment Counselor if they believe he or she may benefit from this service.

A parent may refer a student to the Adjustment Counselor or may call the Adjustment Counselor for some information, advice, suggestions or with concerns.

Students can also request to meet with the Adjustment Counselor themselves for assistance with various issues including academic, social or personal matters.

What kinds of services does the Adjustment Counselor offer?

Student Services

• Individual and small group counseling *
• Lunch Groups
• New Student Groups
• Classroom activities

* Communication between students and or parents are confidential. However, exceptions to the confidentiality are health and safety issues.

Family Services

• Meetings with parents upon request
• Communication with parents (phone, e-mail)

School/Community Services

• Crisis intervention
• Mediation and conflict resolution for students, parents and school staff
• Sending transcripts and recommendation for students applying to private schools
• Tours and transcripts to North Shore Technical High School and Essex Agricultural High School
• Liaison for the John Hopkins Talent Search Program
• Tours for prospective students and families
• Student Assistance Team coordinator

Where is the Adjustment Counselor located?

The Adjustment Counselor's office is Room 117 on the first floor in the 6th grade wing.

How can I contact the School Adjustment Counselor?

• Parents can call 978-468-0396
• Students can ask for a pass from Ms. Shannon, your teacher, the Main Office or they can sign out from the lunch room.  Students can also obtain a lunch pass from Mrs. Shannon.
• Students and Parents can E-Mail Ms. Shannon at shannonl@hwschools.net

When is the Adjustment Counselor available?

• Monday through Friday 7:30 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.

If you have any questions about these services, please feel free to ask.

Ms. Shannon is always happy to speak with families and looks forward to working with you.