Your School Counselors
Your school counselor or school social worker is a member of the educational team at your student’s school and works toward the goals of Southern Hancock Schools. Just like your student’s teacher, we align with the multi-tiered multi-domain systems of support (MTMDSS) to help students improve academics, attendance and behavior and support their school’s academic and college and career readiness goals.
What does a school counselor do?
- Is a Visible, Proactive, Positive, Support for ALL Staff and Students
- Teaches classroom guidance lessons
- Promotes a positive and safe school climate
- Conducts small group counseling sessions
- Consults with parents and families regarding concerns
- Provides information on community resources for families.
- Consults with teachers
- Counsels individual students in brief sessions to facilitate the transition from home to school, to build positive attitudes, self-understanding and self-reliance.
- Provides support during a personal crisis
Why Contact the Counselor?
- Academic Achievement Concerns
- Family Transitions (e.g., divorce, death, re-marriage, new sibling)
- Behavioral & Emotional Concerns
- Home Stressors
- Peer Relations
- Assistance in transitioning to a new school.
NPHS Counselors:
Ms. Caitlin Fangman
Director of Counseling
Last names beginning with U-Z
New Palestine Early College students
cfangman@newpal.k12.in.us
317.861.4417 Ext. 2016
Mr. Mike Rentfrow
Last names beginning with A-J
mrentfrow@newpal.k12.in.us
317.861.4417 Ext. 2022
Ms. Summer Grinstead
Last names beginning with K-T
sgrinstead@newpal.k12.in.us
317.861.4417 Ext. 2015
Ms. Taylor Petruska
School Social Worker/ Student Services Specialist
tpetruska@newpal.k12.in.us
317.861.4417 Ext. 2006
Ms. Michelle Smith
Registrar/Secretary
mlsmith@newpal.k12.in.us
317.861.4417 Ext. 2004