From study skills to college applications, school counselors are here to keep students on track and help them achieve their full potential.
Through the school counseling program, each student develops a sense of who he is, identifies his talents and limitations, and creates a post-high school plan that reflects his strengths and draws on his experiences.

The department believes that collaboration with the faculty, families, colleges, universities, and local community groups provides each student with a positive setting for healthy development.

School counselors meet with their students throughout the year individually and in their counseling classes to address specific areas of concern.

School Counseling Year-by-Year

List of 6 items.

  • Grade 7

    During grade 7, students receive an overview to school counseling and cover important transitional topics such as goal setting, getting involved, and study skills. The study skills component enables students to learn how to keep track of assignments, organize materials, manage time, take notes, and study for tests using a variety of techniques. Students will be able to identify their learning style and create an appropriate study plan.

    During second semester, group meetings begin to move away from academic transitional issues and move toward a focus on relationships. Students begin to examine their own identity, their peer relationships, and their family relationships. They participate in identity formation activities that help them learn about strengths, weaknesses, and personality types. They also participate in activities related to positive communication, appreciation of diversity, and conflict resolution.
  • Grade 8

    During grade 8, students learn the life skills that enable them to maximize their individual and academic potential by learning about stress management, anxiety management, the importance of sleep, and how to develop a resilient attitude. Toward the end of the year, the school counseling curriculum focuses on helping students in grade 8 make a successful transition to high school. Students hear from current Xaverian students, meet their high school counselor, and create a high school success plan.
  • Grade 9

    The focus of school counseling during freshman year is transition. Through the first semester, session topics include introductions, icebreakers, and an overview of the school counseling program. As the year goes on, the program focuses on study skills, using an assignment notebook, and time management.
  • Grade 10

    The focus of sophomore year is careers. Students learn how to sign up for our Family Connection Naviance Program and explore careers by taking personality and interest inventories.
  • Grade 11

    Focus on the college search process begins junior year. Beginning sessions include college overview, working with Naviance Family Connection, and preparing transcripts and SAT scores. Students are encouraged to make college visits, attend college fairs, sharpen their resumes, and craft their essays.
  • Grade 12

    The school counseling program culminates with navigating students through the college application process. The year begins with going over each student's individual timeline and college application checklist. The application process concludes with gathering recommendations and completing the Common Application.

Catholic College Connection


Xaverian is proud to offer students a chance to continue their Catholic education beyond high school through an admissions agreement program called the Catholic College Connection. Xavier University, Loyola University Maryland, and Assumption University offer guaranteed admission* to Xaverian graduates, provided the students are in good academic standing and meet basic admissions criteria. University-specific admission information is available in Xaverian’s counseling office. 

In addition to admission into their universities, all of our Catholic Connection Colleges guarantee varying levels of scholarship and grant awards to students who enroll through the program.

 
Thank you to our Catholic College Connection partners!

    

 

*Some selective programs are not included or may require an additional admission process. These include nursing, dual degree programs, music and theater programs, and some honors programs. 


Meet the Counseling Team

List of 7 members.

  • Photo of Michael Dornisch

    Mr. Michael Dornisch 

    School Counselor
  • Photo of Joanne Fay

    Mrs. Joanne Fay 

    Administrative Assistant to the Counseling Department
  • Photo of Michaela Fitzpatrick

    Ms. Michaela Fitzpatrick 

    Director of Counseling
  • Photo of Barbara Mitchell

    Mrs. Barbara Mitchell 

    School Counselor
  • Photo of Jennifer Newman

    Ms. Jennifer Newman 

    School Adjustment Counselor
  • Photo of Alexander Ramirez

    Mr. Alexander Ramirez 

    School Counselor
  • Photo of Stephen Steinbergher

    Mr. Stephen Steinbergher 

    School Counselor
Xaverian is a Catholic, college-preparatory school for boys in grades 7-12. As an inclusive community, we embrace diverse experiences and perspectives, welcoming students and families from all faiths and backgrounds. Through exceptional academics, athletics, the arts, faith formation, and service opportunities, we help young men discover their unique gifts and talents so they can share them with a world in need.