STUDENT EDUCATION SERVICES

Student Advisory Programs

Offering a student advisory program has been proven to greatly contribute to a thriving school environment and a sense of self-worth for every student.

Throughout adolescence, students benefit from the ongoing support and relationship with one “charismatic adult.” Clinical psychologist Robert Brooks, PhD, often identifies this as an essential element in the developmental life of an evolving adolescent.

Too frequently, administrators experience a faculty’s quiet reluctance and resistance to serve as an advisor. While teachers have expertise in a specific academic subject, they frequently feel they lack the skills to serve as an advisor. Schools must provide professional development and create a curriculum that offers a program rich in content and skills that will support advisors in their ongoing relationship with their advisees.  

An advisory curriculum that encompasses decision-making, communication skills, peer relations, student-led, parent/teacher conferences, self-image, and personal/academic goal setting is are example of elements of a robust curriculum for advisors to implement during their advisory sessions. A strong and engaging advisory program is an essential element in a school’s overall educational program. This program will go a long way toward nourishing a higher quality of life for the faculty and student community.

 The essential elements for a strong functional advisory include an advisory program that professionally offers support to its faculty. The faculty’s ability to physically, academically, emotionally, and socially engage and support each of their advisees.

Mentor and Leadership Programs

Mentor programs offer students an enriching opportunity to make meaningful contributions to the lives of other students.

A student mentor program offering, comprised of high school students serving as big brothers/big sisters to younger students, is an enriching opportunity for students to make a meaningful contribution to the lives of other students. In so doing, they  reap enormous satisfaction and gratification, supporting students by offering their wisdom that results from their own development, while strengthening the school community

Mentors work closely with advisors in their advisory, creating fun activities and serving as important role models, ultimately befriending a small group of younger students.

Such a student leadership program provides many high school students with the opportunity to develop their skills as leaders and role models. Participation in this program enriches a high school senior’s profile in extracurricular activities as part of their college application process.

WJR works with school administrators to develop and ensure the success of a student mentor program. An organized student leadership training curriculum prepares students for this significant role while honing their skills to be effective leaders in their post-high school lives.

“Wendy is an incredible influence and a master in the field of education and leadership. She has successfully worked with educators, parents, and students in a career that includes developing a successful mentor program, advisory program, and professional development for parents. Her dedication, knowledge, and passion for education and leadership have made a lasting impression and continue to inspire others today.”

–Michelle Amilicia, Horace Mann Middle School Class Dean

FAQs

Student Advisory & Mentor Programs

  • A Student Advisory Program is a structured initiative that pairs each student with a dedicated faculty advisor who provides ongoing guidance, support, and encouragement. This relationship ensures that every student feels valued and connected, both academically and personally, throughout their school experience.

  • Research consistently demonstrates that adolescents benefit from a consistent relationship with a trusted adult. Clinical psychologist Robert Brooks, Ph.D., describes this as the presence of a “charismatic adult,” a vital element in adolescent development. Advisory Programs help students build self-worth, strengthen decision-making and communication skills, and foster positive peer relationships.

  • While teachers are experts in their subject areas, many initially feel unprepared to serve as advisors. To ensure success, schools must invest in professional development and provide a comprehensive advisory curriculum that equips faculty with the skills, resources, and confidence needed to support their advisees effectively.

  • A well-designed advisory curriculum includes:

    • Decision-making and problem-solving strategies

    • Effective communication skills

    • Building and sustaining healthy peer relationships

    • Student-led parent/teacher conferences

    • Developing self-image and self-confidence

    • Personal and academic goal setting

  • A strong advisory program enhances the quality of school life for both students and faculty. Students receive academic, emotional, and social support, while faculty gain the opportunity to develop meaningful connections with their advisees. Collectively, this contributes to a thriving, engaged, and supportive school environment.

  • A Student Mentor Program provides opportunities for older students, typically high school juniors and seniors, to serve as role models and guides for younger peers. Acting as “big brothers” or “big sisters,” mentors share their experiences, provide encouragement, and help younger students feel welcomed and supported within the school community.

  • Mentors work in close partnership with faculty advisors to create engaging activities and provide peer support. This collaboration strengthens bonds across grade levels, fosters school spirit, and ensures that younger students benefit from both adult and peer guidance.

  • High school mentors develop valuable leadership and interpersonal skills while experiencing the fulfillment of supporting younger students. Additionally, participation in a leadership program enhances students’ extracurricular profiles, an asset in the college application process.

  • WJR partners with school administrators to establish and sustain effective mentoring initiatives. Through a structured leadership training curriculum, mentors gain the tools and confidence necessary to succeed in their roles and to carry forward these skills into their post-secondary and professional lives.