LMK Middle School Guidance Program Earns National Recognition; Only Middle School in NY State with RAMP Distinction

American School Counselor Association (ASCA) recognized Louis M. Klein School Counseling Program as a Recognized ASCA Model Program or “RAMP.”  There are fewer than 1,600 schools nationwide and LMK Middle School is the only middle school in New York State that has earned the RAMP designation.  Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Louis Wool described the recognition as “an extraordinary distinction that represents a profound commitment to students.”

 

LMK Principal Scott Fried and Director of Guidance Kelly Malczewski presented at a recent Board of Education meeting.  Mr. Fried explained that this designation included a “rigorous, comprehensive study to verify the school’s counseling programs met national standards established by the ASCA.” Ms. Malczewski shared how the application process reflected and affirmed the district's practice of ongoing evaluation and continuous improvement. In particular, the process helped the guidance team to strengthen how data is used to support student growth and achievement. A custom data dashboard has been designed for the counseling team to better understand and track student progress. Ms. Malczewski also recognized the efforts of the Guidance staff and the leadership of middle school counselors Kristin Kearney, Lisa Cannistraci, and Lauren Ciallella, counselor at Harrison High School. 

 

A national panel of  ASCA reviewers verified that the LMK school counseling program is comprehensive, data-driven, intentional, equitable, student-centered, improves student outcomes, and proactively serves every student.  The process included a multi-year rigorous self-analysis of our guidance curriculum and services, analysis and reflection of school data and strategic initiatives, and measurable progress in closing identified achievement gaps. The ASCA acknowledged the achievement, “Congratulations to your school counseling program for demonstrating exemplary implementation of the ASCA National Model. You have been successful providing evidence for how you define, manage, deliver services and assess your comprehensive school  counseling services to influence student achievement.”