26-27 BPS Course Catalog - Flipbook - Page 9
Career Exploration
A component of the Guidance and Counseling program is career exploration and preparation. In addition to
counselor-guided conversations and annual updates to a student’s Educational Development Plan (EDP), students
utilize an online program called Xello. Xello provides self-exploration via college and career planning software to
help students develop and explore careers and future readiness. Xello is also part of the elementary and middle
school curriculum. Most students that attended a BPS middle school are familiar with this interactive program.
Here are some of the focus areas within Xello:
• Opportunities for self-discovery and to build self-awareness.
• Career awareness and career focus features to develop future readiness skills.
• Facilitates personalized pathway planning.
• Matchmaker – assessment that matches careers with student interests and skills.
• Opportunities to ‘explore options’ and create ‘goals and plans.’
• Learning Style Quiz – Students can explore their learning preferences and identify their unique learning style.
Access to this quiz is available via Xello through a student’s ClassLink account. For assistance with account
access or for more information, please reach out to your school’s College and Career Center Specialists:
° At Groves: Jennifer Kondak, email JKondak@birmingham.k12.mi.us or call 248-203-3543.
° At Seaholm: Brenda Guinan Huddy, email BGuinanHuddy@birmingham.k12.mi.us or call
248-203-4253.
Parents
All Birmingham Public School Counselors view parents as partners in their student’s success in school and in life. Parents
and guardians are encouraged to collaborate with staff to become involved as advocates for the success of every
student.
We believe this will:
1. Enhance student academic performance.
2. Increase opportunities for counselor/parent/family interaction.
3. Ensure access to school and community resources.
4. Assure that all students receive services from the school counseling program.
5. Provide support in advocating for their student’s academic, career and personal/social development.
6. Ensure academic planning for every student.
7. Provide training and informational workshops.
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8. Provide data for continuous information on student progress.
