Dear Parents/Guardians:

The Union School District has again contracted with Spero Group, LLC, a local organization that provides counseling services to individuals and organizations, as part of a district-wide commitment to helping students develop skills to improve their emotional health and wellness, in the school setting. Spero Group, LLC, has placed Mrs. Jessica Chapman, a mental health professional, at Union School District four days per week to provide outreach, education, and counseling services to students.

Students may utilize the counselor in a variety of ways outside the classroom. Interactions can range from a quick check-in or discussion, around developing skills needed to manage current situations, to receiving weekly counseling. If a student under 14 years of age is referred for counseling, parents will be contacted to obtain consent. Students over 14 years of age may receive counseling services without parental consent according to Pennsylvania Law Act 147, The Mental Health Procedures Act.

The Union School District has also contracted with Ms. Angie Hawk, as the Social and Human Services Assistant. Ms. Hawk, will provide support to the various stakeholders throughout the district to remove barriers to student’s success in the school setting. Services and support can range based on each individual students’ needs. Ms. Hawk will provide information and assistance to address possible student needs as identified by the administration or school counselor.

These individuals will also be utilized to aid students in achieving the Pennsylvania Department of Education PA Career Readiness Skills. These skills include the social and emotional skills students need to empower themselves to successfully navigate relationships within their family, school, college, and or career, as well as, within the global marketplace. Some examples include skills needed to understand and manage emotions, set goals, maintain positive relationships, feel and show empathy for others, and make responsible decisions.

Through teaching these skills, it is possible to better remove academic and non-academic barriers to learning for optimal success. These topics may be taught within the classroom setting and in conjunction with the guidance office.

Please contact the high school if you would like to know more about how these services could benefit your child, or if you have any additional questions. Time available for individual counseling is limited. These services are paid for by the District, and will require no financial support from students or their families.


Sincerely,



Mr. Andrew Carlson, Principal
Union High School