Students created a gratitude tree during Student Advisory, where they wrote down things for which they were grateful. (Photo Courtesy Whitter Tech) 
During Student Advisory, students participated in an activity focused on identifying parts of their personalities that make them unique. (Photo Courtesy Whittier Tech)
HAVERHILL – Superintendent Maureen Lynch wishes to share an update on the Whitter Tech Student Advisory Program, which was created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Student Advisory was launched at the beginning of the 2020-2021 school year to support student well-being in the midst of the pandemic. The program aims to create meaningful relationships between staff and students while providing academic support and mental health guidance.
Each student is assigned a teacher who serves as their advisor. Students meet in small groups along with their advisors every other week, which allows for a personalized learning environment.
“It is refreshing to engage in activities that normally wouldn’t take place during traditional class time. Playing old game show games, like Family Feud or The Dating Game and solving brain teasers have really made the kids connect and laugh,” Carpentry Instructor John Lavigne said.
During group meetings, students participate in a variety of activities and lessons that support social and emotional well-being, as well as open discussion. Activities may include playing games, meditating, creating gratitude cards and gratitude trees, and more.
“Because of the pandemic we’ve missed opportunities to connect with our peers. During advisory, we have a chance to socialize a little bit. It helped me make more friends and connect with kids outside of my friend group,” said Patrick Sasso, a junior from Newbury.
Students also partake in more serious lessons, including learning how to cope with stress, preparing for college and careers, and learning how to monitor academic progress.
Luchia Quintilliani, a junior from Haverhill, reflected on Student Advisory: “I like having time to talk about what’s going on in my life and how to be less stressed with classwork and my personal life.”
Added Liz Mazza, a junior from Haverhill, “It is great to be able to speak openly about different topics. My favorite lesson so far was completing a card showing gratitude for a teacher or friend in our lives.”
During meetings, students are encouraged to respect their classmates, demonstrate a positive attitude, share their opinions, and participate to the best of their ability.
“Student Advisory is so beneficial because it gives students an outlet without judgment to share their ideas,” Medical Assisting Instructor Nancy Umlah said. “Since the program has started, I feel like the students and I have become so much more connected and understand each other better.”
Students are encouraged to connect with their advisors outside of group meetings during the school day if they need help navigating struggles or accessing guidance resources.
“My students truly look forward to Student Advisory and it gives us a period to have an open discussion about things that our informal shop time doesn’t always cover,” Carpentry Instructor Michael Sandlin said.
The Student Advisory Program was spearheaded by Guidance Counselors Rachael Rossi and Michelle Catena, as well as Special Education Liaison Kristin Bucco. The three meet regularly to find ways to strengthen the program, including creating new lessons and training staff. They also are consulting with Great Schools Partnership, a non-profit focused on improving learning for all students, and networking with other districts to further enhance the program in the future.
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