Stacie Gleason - Guidance Counselor, Hoboken High School
Working as a Guidance Counselor in the Hoboken Public School District is an incredibly rewarding experience, largely because it allows for a front-row seat to students' growth and transformation. Guiding young people as they navigate the complexities of adolescence—discovering their passions, shaping their identities, and building confidence—brings deep fulfillment. The journey is unique for each student; whether it involves helping them overcome academic challenges, supporting them through personal obstacles, or simply cheering them on as they find their path, being a part of that transformative period is a profound privilege. The district recognizes the importance of supporting students' social, emotional, and academic needs with a proactive, data-driven approach that prepares them for their futures. For academic support, students are encouraged to take on rigorous courses, including honors and Advanced Placement (AP) classes, to develop their skills and build resilience. At the same time, those who need extra help are offered tutoring and mentoring, which aids them in developing essential skills like time management, effective study habits, and critical thinking—tools that are foundational for academic and personal success.
Beyond academics, the district provides career exploration opportunities that help students envision and explore various career paths. Through initiatives such as job shadowing, internships, and career fairs, students gain valuable insights into potential professions, better preparing them for informed decisions about their futures. When it comes to college preparation, the Guidance department offers personalized support to help students navigate the complex application process. Students receive assistance with researching potential colleges, understanding entrance requirements, and preparing for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Moreover, counselors guide students in creating strong application materials, such as resumes, essays, and letters of recommendation, ensuring they present themselves effectively. The district also prioritizes financial literacy, helping students and their families understand financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and FAFSA. This comprehensive approach enables students to see college as an achievable goal, regardless of their financial background.
The Hoboken Public School District also goes above and beyond by offering a range of unique counseling programs, initiatives, and resources designed to maximize students' college and career readiness. Through the Guidance department, students have access to personalized college and career counseling tailored to their strengths, aspirations, and goals. Individual college planning helps students create detailed road maps toward higher education, while college and career fairs and overnight field trips expose them to a variety of post-graduation opportunities. Dual Enrollment Programs with institutions like NJIT and FDU allow students to earn college credits while still in high school, further boosting their academic profiles and preparing them for the challenges of college-level coursework. Specialized career pathways and advanced curriculum tracks, including AP classes and Project Lead The Way (PLTW) courses, provide students with targeted knowledge and skills in high-demand fields. Internship and pre-college programs, such as ACES, connect students with real-world experiences and valuable networks, often through partnerships with local colleges.
To ensure that students and their families feel confident in the financial aspects of college, the district hosts FAFSA nights and workshops, where they learn about scholarships, financial aid, and effective budgeting for college. Through these initiatives, Hoboken’s Guidance department supports a holistic approach to student development, empowering young people to not only succeed academically but also to make informed, confident choices about their futures. These programs reflect the district's commitment to helping students graduate with a clear sense of purpose, prepared to thrive in college, the workforce, or any path they choose to pursue.