Counselor's Notebook, October 2009

MASCA

MASSACHUSETTS SCHOOL COUNSELORS ASSOCIATION

VOL. 46, NO. 2

OCTOBER 2009

Making the World a Better Place

By DONNA BROWN, MASCA Executive Director • October 16 World Food Day www.worldfooddayusa.org • October 19 International Day for the Eradication of Poverty www.un.org/esa/socdev/social/ intldays/IntlDay/2009intlday.html

DONNA BROWN

O

ctober is an interesting month.

Whether we are still teaching or not, most of us have settled into a routine. For some, days are defined by school bus time either as parents or educators (or both). For the gardeners among us, afternoons and weekends are spent cleaning up the detritus of the growing season.

For many retirees, the spur of the moment trips to Dunkie’s for ice coffee are fewer and fewer. The days are getting shorter as the carefree days of summer become a distant memory. It’s time to get our lives in order, to get down to serious business.

October offers a great place to start.

A few days ago an interesting newsletter arrived in my post office box. It came from a Connecticut group called “A Curriculum of Hope for a Peaceful World.” I’ve been a subscriber for many years, and every issue has helped me focus on positive ways of helping students (and myself) become true citizens of the world.

This issue did not disappoint.

Filled with resources, inspiration and ideas, the newsletter is a gem. The calendar listed several October dates that counselors could use as tie-ins to classroom lessons or group discussions:

• October 18-24 National Character Counts Week www.charactercounts.org • October 24 Make a Difference Day www.makeadifferenceday.com • October 24 United Nations Day www.un.org Many of these websites have lessons and suggestions about how to involve students in community action and increase their awareness of the world.

Volunteer opportunities For counselors and schools looking for a more global ongoing project, consider the Darfur Dream Team Sister Schools Program (www.darfurdreamteam.org).

Over 60% of the 250,000 people living in refugee camps in eastern Chad are children. This program links American students and their schools, colleges, and

universities with schools in the Darfuri refugee camps. The program’s goals range from teacher training to provision of school supplies and sports equipment to fostering cross-cultural relationships through letter exchanges and blogs.

Locally, volunteers and help are always needed at homeless shelters, soup kitchens, and food banks. Elderly housing complexes always can use folks to do yard work and cleaning in common areas.

Most towns have groups that work to remember soldiers and provide them with both necessities and little extras.

Within the school itself, peer tutoring and groups like Best Buddies and Key Club offer opportunities for students to focus on others.

Several years ago, ASCA’s theme stated that the school counselor was the heart of the school. How true! I would also suggest that we are the conscience of the school as well. We have the opportunity to help students recognize their role in making their community and the world a better, kinder place.

As Dr. Seuss wrote in The Lorax: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better.

It’s not.”

Professional school counselors “care a whole awful lot.” So . . . ■

Massachusetts School Counselors Association

Connecting Counselors in the 21st Century October 6, 2009

•

Holiday Inn, Boxboro, MA

www.masca.org

2

COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

MASCA

2009 – 2010 MASCA OFFICERS PRESIDENT CHRISTINE A. EVANS East Bridgewater High School 11 Plymouth Street, East Bridgewater, MA 02333 Tel. 508-378-5851 • Fax 508-378-8236 E-mail: cevans@ebps.net PRESIDENT-ELECT CAROLYN RICHARDS Somerville High School 81 Highland Avenue, Somerville, MA 02143 Tel. 617-625-6600 x 6120 • Fax 617-628-8413 E-mail: crichards@k12.somerville.ma.us PAST PRESIDENT KAREN M. D’AMOUR Manchester Essex Regional High School 36 Lincoln Street, Manchester, MA 01944 Tel. 978-526-7641 • Fax 978-526-2044 E-mail: damourk@mersd.org VICE PRESIDENT ELEMENTARY TBA VICE PRESIDENT MIDDLE / JUNIOR HIGH RICHARD WHITE Gateway Regional Middle School 12 Littleville Road, Huntington, MA 01050 E-mail: RWhite@GRSD.org VICE PRESIDENT SECONDARY JENNIFER LISK Medway High School, Medway, MA 02053 E-mail: lisk@medway.k12.ma.us

October 2009

inside 4 8 10

VICE PRESIDENT POSTSECONDARY JAY LEIENDECKER Vice President Enrollment Services, Dean College Tel. 508-541-1509 • Fax 508-541-8726 E-mail: jleiendecker@dean.edu

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VICE PRESIDENT ADMINISTRATORS RUTH CARRIGAN Whitman-Hanson Regional High School 600 Franklin Street, Whitman, MA 02382 Tel. 781-618-7434 • Fax 781-618-7098 E-mail: carrigan.ruth@whrsd.org

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VICE PRESIDENT COUNSELOR EDUCATORS THERESA A. COOGAN, Ph.D. Bridgewater State College, Bridgewater, MA 02325 Tel. 508-531-2640 E-mail: theresa.coogan@bridgew.edu VICE PRESIDENT RETIREES RALPH SENNOTT P.O. Box 1391, Westford, MA 01886 Tel. 978-692-8244 E-mail: ralphsennott@hotmail.com EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DONNA M. BROWN Adjunct Professor, UMass Boston P.O. Box 366, 779 Center Street Bryantville, MA 02327 Tel. 781-293-2835 E-mail: dbrownmasca@gmail.com TREASURER TINA KARIDOYANES P.O. Box 1007, Monument Beach, MA 02553 Tel. 508-759-3986 E-mail: tkaridoyanes@gmail.com SECRETARY CARRIE KULICK-CLARK Braintree High School, Braintree, MA 02184 Tel. 781-848-4000 x 2273 E-mail: Jd02375@aol.com MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR DEBORAH CLEMENCE P.O. Box 805, East Dennis, MA 02641 E-mail: DeborahClemence@verizon.net COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK EDITOR SALLY ANN CONNOLLY 19 Bayberry Road, Danvers, MA 01923 Tel. 978-774-8158 • Fax 978-750-8154 E-mail: sallyconnolly@att.net

OCTOBER 2009

13 14 16 18

True Grit: The Key to Success

By Sally Ann Connolly Bill Hearings Scheduled for October

By Bob Bardwell MASCA Professional Development Committee News

By Helen C. O’Donnell, Ed.D. Sharing the MA Model

By Barbara A. Rodricks Laughter Works Building a Better Brain

By Laurie Young Reaching the Mobile Generation

By Catherine Taintor, MSEd MASCA Membership ASCA Conference: Here We Come

By Bob Bardwell

Published by: Massachusetts School Counselors Association 10 issues per year, September through June. The yearly subscription rate is $30.00. Individual copies are $3.00.

Opinions expressed in the articles published herein represent the ideas and/or beliefs of those who write them and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Massachusetts School Counselors Association, Inc. The acceptance of an advertisement for publication does not imply MASCA endorsement of the advertiser’s programs, services, or views expressed.

Questions concerning submission of articles, publication deadlines, advertising rates, etc., should be addressed to Sally Ann Connolly, Editor.

www.masca.org

©2009 by the Massachusetts School Counselors Association.

All rights reserved.

3

True Grit: The Key to Success

By SALLY ANN CONNOLLY MASCA Counselor’s Notebook Editor

Stay the course and “Sail On”

Q

uitters never win. And Jeanine

amazed us. We couldn’t fathom how she

Mason never quit. Although at

could practice two hours each morning

one point she begged her mother to stop

before the beginning of school. And never

the dance lessons she had begun at age

take the summer off. Debbie sought to

three, Jeanine never ceased lacing up her

excel. She worked hard consistently, and

dancing shoes. Now, at the ripe old age

she achieved her goal.

When I started teaching high school,

of 18, she has become America’s favorite

a friend came to me for advice. Her niece

dancer.

The approximately twenty-two million votes cast on the TV show “So You

SALLY ANN CONNOLLY

was not doing well in school, and she wanted to know the secret of my success. In high school I had ranked among

Think You Can Dance” catapulted Jeanine to the top spot. She outranked

Whether it’s a dancing contest, a ten-

the top achievers in my class, and four

an incredibly talented contemporary

nis match, or a spelling bee, winners know

years later I graduated as valedictorian

dancer, a personable Broadway-style

the secret to success: “How do you to

of my college class.

dancer, and “White Lightning”— the

get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice,

Although I showed the young girl how

porcelain doll who danced with ethereal

practice.” Add to that a commitment to

to approach a reading assignment and

perfection.

a long-term goal, and you have a win-

gave her some tips on notetaking and

ning combination.

breaking assignments into “baby steps,”

Throughout the season, Jeanine tackled every choreographer’s creation with

I learned this lesson as a youngster

my best piece of advice was straightfor-

enthusiasm and humility. Dancing her

from watching one of my fellow dancers.

ward. “Study, study, study. In the long

heart out, she peaked — according to the

Debbie, the star of our dancing school,

run what makes the difference is persis-

judges — at just the right time.

was naturally talented and came from a

tent effort.”

But not only technical skill placed her in

long line of accomplished musicians. Her

Recent research shows that successful

the top spot. Her passion, determination,

aunt owned the dance studio, and Debbie

people are not necessarily the most in-

and perseverance carried her through. Like

could do it all — ballet, tap, acrobatics.

telligent, the most creative, or the most

the Energizer Bunny and winners of all

But the key to her success was con-

talented. Rather, they are the ones who

kinds, Jeanine kept on going, working

tinuous effort. My friends and I prac-

set their sights on a long-term goal and

steadfastly to achieve her goal.

ticed, of course, but Debbie’s work ethic

work steadfastly to achieve it despite setbacks and temporary failings. Successful people possess what psychologists call

Counselor’s Notebook available online The Counselor’s Notebook is available on MASCA’s website.

Choose from the PDF version or the forthcoming interactive, digital version, which will allow you to • • • •

read online download, print, or e-mail selections do a keyword search and more.

Check it out at www.masca.org.

“grit.”

The second place winner in this year’s “So You Think You Can Dance” contest was overlooked last year. He didn’t even make the Top 20. Returning to shine this year, he garnered accolades that are certain to further his career goals.

Effort and persistence pay off. This year for America’s favorite dancer it paid off to the tune of two hundred and fifty thousand dollars. Name your own tune and work, work, work. ■

4

COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

OCTOBER 2009

5

What Is Your Plan?

By CHRISTINE EVANS MASCA President

I

n the school where I work, we ask students the question, “What is your plan?” Our students learn early on that the school counselors are passionately dedicated to helping each of them acquire the knowledge and learn the skills they need to formulate “the plan.” No one leaves our school without a plan for what comes next.

The development of a plan starts early freshman year, and it continues as we work with them to fill out the four-year, career plan documents that we use with them. We use a variety of tools, techniques, and resources to help our students learn about themselves, so that they will be prepared to set goals and make plans to accomplish their hopes and dreams.

Usually we start with assessments and inventories that help students evaluate who they are, what they know, what they want, and what they need to do to improve. We also use aptitude tests, achieve-

6

CHRISTINE EVANS ment tests, rating scales, and competency tests, all of which provide valuable data for learning about strengths and weaknesses, talents, preferences and dislikes and which also indicate growth.

How cool would it be if school counselors were to do the same thing for themselves and for each other? If having a plan is important to helping our students accomplish their goals, would not the same hold true for professional school counselors across the Commonwealth?

Taking stock October is a great time for school counselors to stop and take stock of where we are, what we have done, and what we hope to do and to revisit our plan for how we are going to succeed.

Do you have a plan for this year that includes long-term and short-term goals for growth and development? Have you been able to identify areas of relative weaknesses and strengths, so that you can plan appropriate professional development?

Perhaps you would like to put your strengths to work by sharing best practices and curriculum ideas with your colleagues. The perfect place for this kind of sharing and connecting is at the MASCA annual fall conference, which is scheduled for October 6 at the Holiday Inn in Boxborough. The Conference Committee has worked hard to put together a variety of relevant opportunities to meet your needs.

Pat Nailor, president of ASCA, will give the keynote address and conduct a breakout session after lunch. Dr. Carey Dimmitt will discuss Solution-Focused Counseling. And there will be opportunities to check out MEFA’s school counselor trainings on Early College Planning, new trends in the college admissions process, and the new Web Portal. There will also be important information about the upcoming hearings on new legislation and what you can do to support HB 470 and 471.

These are just a few examples of what will be offered at the fall conference.

Check out the MASCA website for more details: www.masca.org.

What is your plan? I hope it includes attending the MASCA fall and spring conferences as well as the ASCA National Conference to be held in Boston next summer.

Stay tuned for more information on all of these great opportunities for you to connect and share with professional school counselors from all over the Commonwealth and the country. ■ COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

MCPHS Means Health Care At MCPHS

we’re all about health care.

From students and faculty in lab coats and scrubs,

Schools at a Glance:

to the concentrated energy in our modern, high-tech

• School of Nursing

laboratories, to the hustle and bustle within our soaring

• Forsyth School of Dental Hygiene

glass-and-steel atrium, our campus mirrors our mission.

• School of Radiologic Sciences

Everything we do reflects our commitment to educating the next generation of capable and compassionate health

• School of Physician Assistant Studies

care professionals and researchers. We encourage students

• School of Pharmacy

to contact our admission office at 617.732.2850 to schedule

• School of Health Sciences

an individual visit through our Visit Concierge.

• School of Arts and Sciences

www.mcphs.edu | 800.225.5506 OCTOBER 2009

7

Bill Hearings Scheduled for October

By BOB BARDWELL, MASCA Interim Government Relations Chair

M

BOB BARDWELL

ASCA and the Massachusetts Coalition for School Counseling are preparing for the upcoming hearings on HB 470 & 471 by the Joint Committee on Education, which will be held on Tuesday, October 27 at 1:00 p.m. at a State House hearing room (TBA). Currently, Coalition members are planning the testimony and speakers for these

hearings.

All MASCA members have received an e-mail asking them to contact their state legislators informing them of the upcoming hearings. We will also be asking members to come to the State House on October 27 to lend their support. If you plan to attend, let your legislators know that you will be there. A packed hearing room will go a long way to help move these bills out of Committee.

To see the text version of the bills, go to http://www.masca.org/masca/government _relations.htm. At this website you will also find a six-year career plan and talking points to help you make contacts with legislators. We ask that MASCA members submit editorials to their local newspapers in support of the legislation.

If you have not already signed up as part of the grassroots legislator call list, there is still time. Our goal is to have a list of MASCA members who, when notified about an important legislative event concerning school counseling, will contact legislators in their home district. If the Government Relations Committee has quick and easy access to such a list of volunteers, we can be assured that all 200 legislators will receive updates swiftly and efficiently.

This is truly a grassroots effort in order to connect with our state legislators and let them know just how important school counselors are to our students. If you are interested in serving in this capacity, please contact me at bardwellr@monsonschools .com or at 413-267-4589 x1107 and tell me your home address and the name of your state senator and representative.

Leadership Forum planned Also, mark your calendars for March 10, 2010 for the annual Leadership Forum on Beacon Hill. We will return to the State House to continue to advocate for school counseling in Massachusetts. More details will be forthcoming.

If you would like to join the Government Relations Committee or the Massachusetts School Counseling Coalition, or if you have any questions, please let me know. All are welcome. â–

8

COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

MEFA’s Summer School Counselor Training

By JENNIFER LISK MASCA VP Secondary

A

t the MASCA Spring Conference

cial aid training, which I had expected,

in May, I heard about the summer

but there were also panel presentations

training that MEFA was planning for

on the state of higher education in this

school counselors. It sounded like a great

economy, discussion on letters of recom-

opportunity for free professional devel-

mendation, and introduction of MEFA’s

opment.

newest publications for college planning.

As it approached, a week before I had

We were treated to wonderful hospi-

to return to school, I was torn between

tality from Dean College, and it was a

looking forward to this opportunity and thinking I may be crazy for committing

JENNIFER LISK

great opportunity to interact with colleagues from around the state in a relaxed environment. I encourage all of you

to it in my last summer days. It turns out that it was a good decision and great

ing excellent resources and training for

to take advantage of MEFA, not just for

professional development.

school counselors, students, and parents

their financial aid nights, but for every-

was evident. There was extensive finan-

thing else they offer. ■

The commitment of MEFA to provid-

MASCA 2009-2010 Moving All School Counselors Ahead

OCTOBER 2009

9

MASCA Professional Development Committee News

By HELEN C. O’DONNELL, Ed.D. MASCA Professional Development Committee Chair VISION: Moving from good to great.

forms that, when completed, can be sub-

development offered by your local

GOAL: Statewide recognition of MASCA

mitted for PDPs once the minimum of 10

MASCA affiliate and to stay current

as a quality provider of affordable pro-

training hours are documented. MASCA

with professional journals from ASCA

fessional development programs for

PDP Protocol is posted on MASCA’s web-

and ACA.

school counselors in the Commonwealth.

site or you can write to pdchair@masca.org.

MISSION STATEMENT: The MASCA PD Committee develops, presents, and promotes relevant and accessible professional development opportunities for MA school counselors. The PD Committee supports and assists other MASCA committees and is available to assist MASCA affiliates in planning their educational programming. Through professional development initiatives, MASCA memberships are cultivated.

PD opportunities are designed specifically for school counselors. These are great opportunities to connect, network, and dialogue with colleagues and to listen to keynoters and workshop presenters discuss research, programs, and best practices in the field.

When you return to your school, share your resources and new knowledge with your department. Check the MASCA website, www.masca.org, and online emails about current PD offerings, which

PDP opportunities

include conferences, institutes, and work-

MASCA is not a CEU provider because

shops. It is easy to register with our on-

DESE requires PDPs for school counselor

line registration service (CVENT) and

certifications. However, all conferences

credit card payments. Checks and pur-

and workshops provide Certificates of

chase orders are also accepted.

Attendance and Evidence of Learning

Don’t forget to check out professional

MA Model resources Two participants in the MA Model Advanced Institute 2009 are working to identify implementation materials for posting on the MASCA website.

Because we are developing a library of helpful, online resources and articles, you are also invited to submit materials as well for posting. Materials must be submitted electronically and may include PowerPoint presentations, comprehensive school counseling department calendars, job descriptions, helpful websites, resources, books or research articles, curriculum materials, and actual lessons.

When submitting lessons, mandatory criteria include a detailed lesson plan, standards links that include CDE Benchmarks and MA Curriculum Frameworks, pre/post assessment documents, graphs to

MASCA PDP SIGNUP FORM

showcase compiled data results, and next steps based on data results. Send mate-

I want to sign up for MASCA PDPs.

rials electronically to pdchair@masca.org.

Name: __________________________________________________________

Volunteers wanted • Conference Committee Techie: The

Address: ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ E-mail: _________________________________________________________ Send a check for $25 made payable to MASCA along with your stamped

committee is looking for someone to train in the use of our CVENT online registration system. Training will enable you to design conference registration events. If interested, contact pdchair@masca.org.

MASCA conferences’ Certificates of Attendance and completed Evidence of

• The 50th Birthday Planning Com-

Learning Forms documenting AT LEAST 10 HOURS of professional devel-

mittee member: The committee welcomes

opment training to:

new members. We are looking specifically Helen O’Donnell, Ed.D.

for a person who is willing to interview

10 Maplewood Terrace

and video past MASCA members and lead-

Hadley, MA 01035

ers to capture memories of MASCA’s past fifty years. Contact pdchair@masca.org. ■

10

COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

Sharing the MA Model

By BARBARA A. RODRICKS Counselor, Cape Cod Technical High School

L

undertake in Student Services.

ast December, a story on the front

orientation to the school building, meet

page of the Cape Cod Times caught

key staff members and discuss their roles,

For some time now, ASCA’s motto

my eye. The heading was “Thinking glo-

review guidance procedures and practices

has been One Vision: One Voice. Here in

bally, working locally.” Pictured was a

(including a pre/post-test), complete the

Massachusetts I propose that this voice

large color photo of a young man making

“Do What You Are” interest survey, and

start as conversations between compre-

a pizza. The article was subtitled “Cana-

start a career plan.

hensive and technical schools. For far

dian works a different joy every week for charity and clarity.”

But what was the most valuable — certainly to me — was the knowledge I

too long we have been viewed as different entities.

I eagerly read the article about a

gained about each student. I believe

Due to the increased demand for ad-

twenty-six-year-old career seeker named

these sessions laid the foundation for

missions and higher standards for grad-

Sean Aiken, who, after graduating from

my four-year relationship with my stu-

uation, the profile of the vocational stu-

college, was unsure of his future. He

dents. Never during my twenty years in

dent has changed in recent years.

decided to journey around Canada and

this profession had I felt so connected to

Technical schools have responded with

the United States trying out different

a group of students so early in their high

increased academic expectations, and

careers for a week at a time, attempting

school careers.

our comprehensive colleagues could be

to find a job he was passionate about.

A colleague from a local comprehen-

a great resource here.

sive high school visited our school to ob-

Similarly, all schools are now expect-

Then I thought . . . Wait a minute.

serve the Signs of Suicide Program, which

ed to write career plans with their stu-

This all sounds so terrific to me because

is also part of our guidance curriculum.

dents. Career exploration has always been

in technical education we call this ap-

She commented on how I knew all my

at the heart of technical education. As

proach: Exploratory.

students by name and how I was able to

counselors in technical schools, we are

As the freshman school counselor this

talk to each of them about topics of per-

very willing to share our experience with

year I rotated 190 students through eigh-

sonal importance. This made me think

interest surveys and career plans. Please

teen different career/shop placements.

about how fortunate I am to work in a

contact me if you would like to open up

While the design of the program varies

school that supports every project we

the dialogue. ■

What a great idea!

from one technical school to another, the philosophy is the same: expose all students to as many career options as possible so that they can find an exciting fit.

This year’s Freshman Exploratory Program was especially meaningful to me and, I believe, to my students as well because of the way it was connected to our school’s Developmental Guidance Curriculum.

As the small student groups rotated through shops, one of the rotations was entitled Student Services. While there were no sparks flying, lights flashing, or horns blowing, I do believe that many seeds

Connecting Counselors in the 21st Century

were planted. During our time together the students and I were able to get an OCTOBER 2009

11

Laughter Works Physiological Effects of Laughter • Laughter is a physical activity and with any exercise, heart rate, and blood pressure go up. Studies show that after laughter subsides, these rates go down below base rate.

• Skeletal muscle tension decreases. In this regard, laughter differs from other forms of exercise. Muscle tension is a major contributor to head and backaches and can greatly increase other pains.

Laughter relaxes muscles, thereby reducing pain.

• Respiratory rate is stimulated. Deep breathing and coughing stimulated by laughter can help to clear out the lungs and increase blood gas exchange. Oxygen rich blood is carried to the brain.

(We get smarter!)

• Energy expenditure increases, body temperature rises, and the digestive track is stimulated. Norman Cousins called laughter “Internal Jogging.” (Watch for the Laughter Diet!)

• Studies have recently shown that laughter bolsters the immune system by

MASCA 2009 DIRECTORY OF MASSACHUSETTS SCHOOL COUNSELORS The Directory lists school counselors in K-12 public, private, parochial, and regional and technical high schools. Phone, fax, and e-mail information is included. Each MASCA member will receive one (1) complimentary copy.

PLEASE USE THE ORDER FORM BELOW to order more copies. Download the form at www.masca.org or order online and use your credit card.

1-5 copies @ $30.00 each . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No. ____

$ _________

Additional Copies 6 or more @ $25.00 each . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No. ____

$ _________

Shipping / Handling @$3.50 each copy . . . . . . . . No. ____

$ _________

5.00 P. O. Processing Fee (per order) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ _________ Make checks payable to: MASCA

TOTAL: . . $ __________

If mailing this form, send to: Ms. Marla Schay, Weston High School, 444 Wellesley St., Weston, MA 02493

Questions? E-mail SchayM@mail.weston.org

Your name and contact information: Name: ______________________________________________________________ School District/Business: _______________________________________________ Mailing Address: _____________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________ E-mail Address: ______________________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________________________________________

12

increasing lymphocyte proliferation, natural killer cell activity, and immune response in saliva. Laughter decreases epinephrine and cortisol levels, which can suppress the immune system.

• Laughter has been shown to be effective in “undoing” stress and negative emotions leading to cardiovascular reactivity. Laughter looks like a cardiac elixir!

• According to Dr. Lee Berk from Loma Linda University, endorphins are released when people laugh, which would explain the good feelings laughter brings us.

• Dr. Allan Reiss of Stanford University found that laughter activates the same area of the brain that responds to cocaine and methamphetamine, giving us a natural high. Say YES to laughter!

Social and Emotional Benefits of Laughter Laughter can help break the helpless / hopeless cycle. It places stressful situations in perspective and provides a new outlook. It helps lift depression and can act as an antagonist to anger. Laughter is a social activity that brings people together. Studies have shown that only 6% of laughter occurs when people are alone.

When we laugh with someone, we feel instantly at ease.

Studies have shown that men laugh less often than women. Sometimes as we age, we laugh less. We begin to believe some of the myths about laughter. We wait to become happy before we laugh. Even our words devalue the importance of laughter. When we enter into a new important relationship, we say that we are getting “serious.” Laughter at work implies that we are not serious about our job. Laughter has intellectual, social, physiological, and spiritual health-enhancing benefits.

––––––––––––––––––––

Reprinted with permission from Laughter Works, www.laughways.com. ■ COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

Building a Better Brain

By LAURIE YOUNG, Laughter Works

R

ecent research conducted by scientists at the University of Kentucky is turning our assumptions about the brain upside down. Researchers have discovered that the brain has the capacity to change, adapt, and grow well into old age and that we have some control over how healthy and alert our brains remain as the years go by.

and unusual.”

• Learn to juggle, ride a unicycle, learn a new sport.

• Do puzzles, crosswords, play scrabble, bridge, jig saw puzzles.

• Become an expert at something new.

• Dance, enter a triathalon, take up Tai Chi. • Never retire. Ever.

• Take a new class, meet new people

from different walks of life.

• Learn 50 new ways to bake a potato — don't become one!

• Turn off the TV. • Have fun, laugh at nothing, play with toys.

––––––––––––––––––––

Laurie Young will be a keynoter at the MASCA Annual Spring Conference. ■

The Nun Study Dr. David Snowdon and his colleagues at the University of Kentucky recruited 500 School Sisters of Notre Dame from Mankato, Minnesota. Believing that they could teach in death as well as life they became the largest brain donor population in the world.

More than 100 of these sisters have subsequently died and results from meticulous studies are beginning to come in.

These sisters live to an average age of 85 and many live far longer. But longevity is only part of the story. These sisters do not seem to suffer from Alzheimer's disease as early or as severely as the general population.

What makes the nuns different Studies have shown that the more educated and mentally active the sister was, the less likely that she would show signs of dementia. Mental exercise, researchers believe, causes the brain neurons to grow more dendrites, or branches, causing millions of additional connections, or synapses between brain cells. This creates a surplus of brain tissue that can compensate for tissue damaged by disease.

How to grow a better brain New learning stimulates rapid growth in the connections of the brain. Once a skill becomes automatic the new growth slows.

So the real key to growing a better brain is to look for NEW challenges and directions. Nerve cells are designed to be stimulated by new input and it is never too late to build a richer brain structure. Dr. Marion Diamond from UCLA's Brain Research Institute says that the brain benefits most from that which is “exotic OCTOBER 2009

13

Reaching the Mobile Generation

By CATHERINE TAINTOR, MSEd Counselor’s Room Editor www.counselorsroom.com

S

ome teachers are encouraging the use of regular cell phones in the classroom as a way to engage students in learning. Maybe it’s time for counselors to make the technology leap and harness the potential of cell phone technology to connect with students.

According to a recent webinar by Education Week entitled “Cell Phones as Instructional Tools,” cell phones are quietly making their way into schools. Liz Kolb, education technology instructor at University of Michigan and Madonna University, gave several examples of how teachers are using cell phones in the classroom. Teachers are challenging students to use cell phones to record interviews and to take notes and pictures. Students listen to a lecture and text their response and questions to an interactive screen online. Teachers create digital storybooks, text homework assignments, conference

with parents, and send videos and pictures all with the use of regular cell phones.

Many schools place restrictions on cell phone use because some students use the phones to cheat on tests and harass other students. In these schools, teachers negotiated cell phone use for classroom purposes with administrators.

According to statistics from the wireless trade association CTIA, four out of five teens carry a cell phone, which is up from 40% in 2004. Although everyone is talking about the use of smartphones, none of the free online resources talked about here require anything but regular cell phones.

The regular cell phone is a tool that can benefit school counselors, social workers, and religious educators. Here are a few ways counselors can utilize the cell phone technology using free online resources:

• Text to an interactive screen online.

This is a great idea for classroom guidance. Students can brainstorm ideas by texting ideas and thoughts to the screen in front of the classroom for all to see.

Students use screen names to remain anonymous. This encourages hesitant students to take risks and express feelings they might not otherwise share with the class. An example of a free online resource is http://wiffiti.com. (Counselor’sRoom .com helps with Wiffiti) • Motivate students with videos or pictures. Create an account through a free online resource such as http://drop.io.

• Create an account that gives students a phone number and an e-mail address.

You can then record messages, send pictures, and share files. Give students the phone number, which is password protected.

• Text students. Text reminders to students of individual counseling sessions or send out motivational messages to help students accomplish goals set up in counseling sessions.

• Conference with parents. Text messages to parents or text numbers of community resources to parents and students.

• Record discussions on topics of interest to parents and students. Use a free online resource that allows you to share files such as http://drop.io/ Note for those reluctant to give out their private cell phone number: Counselors may want to get a second cell phone number. Google Voice is a free resource where you can get a second local, “fake” private number. You are given a number with a local area code to give to your students. Counselors can redirect this number to their cell phone, voice mail, or landline. Phone calls can be recorded, which is helpful for conferencing with parents. ■

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COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

OCTOBER 2009

15

MASCA Membership The Massachusetts School Counselors Association (MASCA) is dedicated to providing information and services that will support the counseling profession. Joining MASCA not only keeps counselors connected and informed but also strengthens the guidance profession as a whole.

MASCA Membership Benefits: • Your support of MASCA initiatives, which include professional development and advocacy for all counselors • Subscription to the Counselor’s Notebook, mailed to you monthly when school is in session and available online • Reduced rates at fall and spring conferences • Subscription to the MASCA e-mail list for timely updates and information • Access to online database of all MASCA members • Opportunities to participate on a variety of MASCA committees Our membership application is now online. You can choose to pay by credit card or by check. If you pay by credit card, your membership application can be approved in a timely manner. To renew or to join, go to the MASCA website:

www.masca.org/masca/memberships/htm

Art Biology Business Management Chemistry Communication Computer Info. Systems Computer Science Criminal Justice Economics Education / Special Education English Environmental Science General Science History Liberal Studies Mathematics Movement Science Music Political Science Psychology Regional Planning Social Work Sociology Theatre Arts

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Westfield State

The Right Fit

Westfield State Office of Admission Post Office Box 1630 · Westfield, MA 01086 (413) 572-5218 · wsc.ma.edu COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

ED’S VIEWS

By ED BRYANT, NCC MASCA Life Trustee, MASCA Armed Services Liaison

T

he Ipswich 375th parade is over. It was a huge success, thanks to many people. Now that months of stress are over, it’s time for some R & R. Went on a lobster cruise at Cape Cod. The lobster was delicious with the Sam Adams.

Oscar, how about some more historic guidance moments? Did you know that the salary of executive secretary/treasurer of the Louisiana Personnel and Guidance Association was only $1200? Jim Stiles, ASCA President in 1981-1982, stated: “Each of us as professionals needs to be aware of where we came from, who we are, what we are like, and what we have to offer our clients — to be aware of our own role in interaction with clients.”

In 1975 the theme of the New England Personnel and Guidance Conference was “Human Energy: Potential Unlimited.” Here are some ideas for the 20092010 MASCA conferences: decision-making skills, group techniques, parent involvement, stress management, career education, legalities in counseling, special services, test taking, parliamentary procedures for affiliate leaders.

On October 29, 1981, an education symposium was held at the State House.

Some of the topics discussed were: violence and vandalism in the school, the increased number of private and parochial schools, the growing federal role in higher education. Not much change in 2009, so “stay in the fray.”

At the National Career Development Association annual convention, MCDA was presented the 2009 Outstanding State Division Award. Marcia Eagleson, Director of Career Services at Worcester State College, accepted.

This year the 20th Service Academies/ ROTC Night will be held on Wednesday, November 4 at Danversport Yacht Club (Rt. 128N, Exit 22E). We usually have 300 parents and students (grades 9-12)

OCTOBER 2009

in attendance. Counselors, if you do not receive an invitation, please continue to notify interested students and parents. I started this program with the help of many people, especially Capt. S. Carlisle.

Its purpose is to help counselors, students,

and parents with the many options available.

Henry James wrote: “Three things in human life are important. The first is to be kind. The second is to be kind. The third is to be kind.” ■

During the Ipswich 375th Anniversary parade, Capt. Ed Bryant, front right, rode in a World War II Jeep. Capt. Bryant served as the parade’s Grand Marshal.

Hearings on HR 470 & 471 October 27, 2009, 1:00 pm State House ___________

Leadership Forum on Beacon Hill March 10, 2010 ___________

MASCA Annual Spring Conference April 11-13, 2010 Sheraton Ferncroft, Danvers 17

ASCA Conference: Here We Come

By BOB BARDWELL, MASCA Past President ASCA Secondary Level Vice President “Back in February when I registered to attend the American School Counselors Association (ASCA) conference, it sounded like a great idea. What a great way to end the school year! By mid-June I was beginning to regret this decision. Why was I going to spend $1000 out of my own pocket (my school system was not going to pay for it) when I had too much to do and no time to do it? Let me just say that not only did I find this conference one of the best I have ever attended, but I have already made plans to attend the 2004 conference in Reno, Nevada. In fact, it will be part of my family vacation.”

T

hese words were published in the September 2003 Counselor’s Notebook as a reflection of my experience at my first ASCA national conference. Seven national conferences later, I’m still at it and the conferences are better than ever.

I can’t even begin to tell you how that one experience has changed my life, and I am so grateful that I took a risk.

As we in Massachusetts prepare for the ASCA 2010 conference in Boston (July 3-6), I hope that you too will take a chance. The opportunity to attend the ASCA national conference is one that every school counselor should have.

There is simply no comparison.

As good as our own MASCA conferences are, the National Conference is bigger (almost 2000 attendees) and can provide opportunities to network with many more counselors from all over the world.

And, with the conference right in our own

Reminder from MASCA Please check your membership expiration date on the mailing label of this issue of the Notebook.

For a membership form, go to MASCA’s website, www.masca.org.

18

backyard, there is no excuse not to go.

Perhaps even more important than the formal sessions is the opportunity to network with hundreds of other school counselors at all levels: counselor supervisors, counselor educators, and graduate students as well. Many of the conversations I have during the conference help me in my daily work and provide me with lifetime colleagues.

Many have expressed concern about the fact that we will be in Boston during the July 4 holiday weekend. While this may not be appealing to some, since it may interrupt vacation plans or the thought of being in part of the big crowds does not excite us, many, many members from across the globe are eager with excitement and energy about being in the birthplace of America during our nation’s birthday party.

Over the next ten months, MASCA is making an effort to encourage our members to attend the conference. We want to make it clear that this is not a competition between MASCA and ASCA. We encourage you to view it as two very different professional development opportunities that you should take advantage of for different reasons.

There will also be many opportunities to volunteer or be part of the ASCA conference. Watch this space and your e-mails for ways in which you can get involved.

While the deadline to submit session proposals was September 4, session moderators and others will be needed to staff tables and put up signs, etc. No one will be turned away.

If you have access to professional development funds this coming year, make sure to request them now before they are used or even worse your budget is frozen. he cost for a full attendee registration for the ASCA conference is $325, not including travel, lodging, or food (although several meals/receptions are included in the registration fee). The host hotel is the Boston Sheraton, where the rate will be $179/ night. Now is your chance. You don’t want to miss out. ■ COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK

OCTOBER 2009

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Massachusetts School Counselors Association, Inc. COUNSELOR’S NOTEBOOK Sally Ann Connolly, Editor

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YOUR MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL DATE IS INDICATED BY YEAR AND MONTH ON YOUR ADDRESS LABEL ABOVE. To renew your membership, go to MASCA’s website, www.masca.org.

Massachusetts School Counselors Association

Connecting Counselors in the 21st Century October 6, 2009

•

Holiday Inn, Boxboro, MA

www.masca.org

AFTERNOON SESSIONS

“MEFA School Counselor Training, Part 1 (grades 7-12)”

PAT NAILOR, ASCA President

CAREY DIMMITT, Ph.D.

“Focusing on Accountability = Success for All Students”

“Solution-Focused Counseling”

Early College Planning, College Admissions Process, Web Portal

_____________ Register by mail using the registration form included in this issue of CN or register online by contacting Ron Miller at webmaster@masca.org.

Make checks payable to MASCA and mail to: Joe Fitzgerald, Registrar, 5 Progress Street, Weymouth, MA 02188 (registrar@masca.org)

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