Careful and diligent academic planning is essential to each student’s readiness to attend the college of their choice. Palma’s guidance department works with administrators, teachers and individual students to create a course of study that meets, but more often than not, exceeds admission requirements for universities and colleges, while also bearing in mind the strengths, abilities, and interests of the individual. Counselors strive to help students set and achieve academic goals building on their successes to inspire a passion for life-long learning.

Palma’s guidance department recognizes the increasing and unique challenges and pressures that face our adolescents today. Counselors are available to offer support and guidance as well as resources to those students who wish to discuss a particular problem or concern they are facing. As with any counseling relationship, there is an expectation of privacy afforded. Counselors provide a safe and confidential environment in which students may address their concerns, and it is the responsibility of the counselor to fully respect the right to privacy of those with whom they enter counseling relationships. Confidentiality in personal counseling relationships is upheld with the following exceptions; if the student is being abused, if the student threatens harm or is a danger to himself, if the student is harming or threatens to harm another, or if the student or another is in imminent danger. If an issue arises that seems to need more help than the counselor can provide, referrals will be made to appropriate licensed professionals in the community.

Palma is committed to not only preparing students to be successful in college, but also to assisting students in choosing a college environment that is right for them; an environment that will play to their strengths both academically and socially. It is the aim of the college counseling department to provide guidance, support, and information so that students can make the best possible decision about their future. Palma focuses on providing each young man with the tools and information he will need to find the college that will be the best fit. Counselors strive to provide extensive support and information, however seniors are expected to take ownership of the college application process. By taking responsibility for this process, students take an important step in the transition into independent adult decision-making.

The Guidance department works closely with students, faculty, and families to best meet the intricacies of various learning styles. Counselors are available to work with students with documented learning disabilities who require services and testing accommodations.

Counselors are available to:

• Coordinate services for students identified as having learning disabilities, including those who require classroom accommodations, learning aids, extended time for classroom testing, and extended time on standardized tests.
• Provide academic support to students identified as having learning disabilities.
• Compile and submit documentation for testing accommodations.
• Coordinate and administer standardized tests for students requiring accommodations.