Community High School Guidance and Transition

Meet Our Staff

  • Joy Bortnick- Guidance/ College Coordinator
  • Jackie Murray- Transition Coordinator
  • Sara Shortway- Assistant Director/Testing Coordinator
  • Michele Barretta- Senior Advisor

College Transition Guideline

In 9th grade, the students begin creating their college and career journey. Freshmen complete a Career Portfolio Worksheet, which asks them to discuss their interests, work experiences, volunteer work, and strengths. This process gets them thinking about what they would like to do in the future.

The sophomores complete a Level 1 Vocational Assessment. This also prompts them to think about what they have done, in respect to work and study, as well as what they want to do in the future. 10th grade is also when the students explore various types of online assessments and interest surveys. They have the opportunity to create an online portfolio through the New Jersey Career Assistance Navigator. Through NJCAN, students can answer questions and rate activities based on their experiences and interests. These online assessments generate lists of possible career fields for students to explore further. Students are encouraged to utilize the NJCAN program throughout their remaining time in high school.

During the junior year, all students meet individually with the Transition Coordinator. Through this junior meeting, students once again express their interests and goals for after graduation. It is at this time that the guidance staff encourages students to visit colleges and other post secondary options, as well as involvement in community service practices and paid work involvement. Also, Community High School plans for several college representatives to come and speak to our junior class.

Student college bound

Senior year calls for narrowing down options and interests and applying for colleges. Each senior has an individual meeting to discuss post-secondary education plans. All students are assigned to a senior advisor who assists them in completing applications, meeting deadlines, constructing an essay, and updating their resumes and transition. Seniors are also always prompted to participate in community service and extracurricular activities.

high school addisions

Community Service

At Community High School, all students are reminded of the importance of community service. Students are always advised to ask for assistance in finding volunteer service placements if they are interested. Also, some students are given the opportunity to volunteer their time across the street, at the Community Lower School. Students go over there once a week during their elective and assist teachers in the classroom. Students enjoy working with teachers in the areas of Science, Math, English, Physical Education, Art, Social Studies, and Computers.

New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services

Students living in New Jersey are recommended to seek services through the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services. NJ DVRS provides many services to students with disabilities. Students’ strengths, abilities, needs, and priorities are taken into consideration when being referred for these services. Some services that NJ DVRS provides includes vocational assessment, job/vocational training, counseling, and other services to help individuals obtain and maintain employment. Services are rendered based on both need and eligibility.

Adult Career and Continuing Education Services-Vocational Rehabilitation

Students living in New York are recommended to apply for services from the Adult Career and Continuing Education Services-Vocational Rehabilitation. This program offers services to individuals who need assistance in creating and maintaining a career plan. Services through ACCES-VR include vocational counseling and guidance, youth services, job development and placement, and some financial assistance. Services rendered are based on need, eligibility, and at times, financial assessment.