Counseling and Student Support Services

We recognize that many factors can interfere with students’ academic performance. The counseling program at Episcopal provides a supportive environment in which each child can develop spiritually, emotionally, socially and academically. It is our goal to assist students as they maximize their strengths and reach their greatest potential. Episcopal has four full-time counselors on staff to meet the emotional, psychosocial, and academic needs of the entire student body. In addition to the supportive services listed below, the counseling department offers individual and small group counseling, parent support and book study, and a wide array of community services and events.

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Learning Support Services

Students diagnosed with learning differences are offered classroom accommodations, counseling support, and assistance in applying for extended time accommodations for national standardized tests. Additionally, assistive technology programs are available to meet their learning needs.

Advisory Program (Grades 6-12)

Mentoring students both individually and as a group, Advisors maintain an open line of communication between the school and parents, supervising activities related to students' academic progress and semester schedules. For Middle and Upper School students, their advisor is a mentor, role model and advocate, and is often the first point of contact for parents. Group advisory is an opportunity for students to form relationships with other students in their cohort, and for new students, this may be the first group with which they will become actively involved.

Student Support Groups

Student Support Groups are formed in each division on an as-needed basis. Banana Splits is offered in all divisions to support students with family changes such as separation, divorce or grief. OYES, Owning Your Educational Success, is an Upper School support group for students diagnosed with learning differences. This group helps students to manage their learning difference and achieve their personal best. Other groups are formed on an as needed basis to address developmental issues such as anxiety, relationship problems, social skills training, and study skills.

Peer Leaders and Mediators

Episcopal provides many opportunities for students to take on leadership roles. Peer Leaders welcome students new to Episcopal in the Middle and Upper School. They also work with the division counselors to lead activities to build a positive school culture. Peer Mediators are trained Middle School students who help peers navigate conflicts. Mediators use problem solving methods developed by the New Jersey Bar Association for school mediation programs.