Advisory
Think highly-qualified teacher. Think mentor. Think project manager. Think trusted adult. Think involved community member. Think student advocate. Think of partner in your education. Now, think Advisor.
Advisors at Big Picture High Schools play a complex role. They are, first and foremost, responsible for navigating and guiding the learning process of the students in their advisory. The advisor is a part of each student’s Learning Plan team, along with the student, parent and mentor. The advisor guides this team to support and coach the student’s learning process.
An advisor is so much more than a teacher. Advising can be a very rewarding and intense experience. Here is a list of some of the advisor’s roles:
To the best of his or her ability an advisor…
• Works with each student to create and fulfill an individual Learning Plan tailored to the student’s interests, passions and needs.
• Works to create a caring, intellectually stimulating and well-organized advisory.
• Networks in the community to help students gain opportunities like LTIs (Learning Through Internships).
• Advocates for students to help them gain other opportunities.
• Coaches each student to help him or her develop as a learner.
• Counsels students.
• Mediates disputes.
• Sets logical consequences.
• Make decisions based on what is best for each student.
• Gets to know each student well.
• Takes on leadership roles with in the school.
• Works with all students in school, not just his or her own advisory.
• Thinks about and gives input into the structure and policies of the school.
• Works as a team member with other staff.
• Communicates often with parents.
• Manages students’ LTIs and is in frequent contact with each mentor.
• Is able to articulate the vision of a Big Picture school.
• Finds teachable moments to integrate skill building and project work.
• Understands all five Learning Goals in enough depth to coach students through challenging projects.
• Helps create a culture of respect and diversity throughout the school.
• Cares deeply for students.
• Believes all students can be successful.
• Has high expectation for students.
• Has individualized expectations for each student.
• Helps students identify their passions.
• Understands each student’s different learning style.
• Helps students prepare for college and the world of work.
• Coaches students through the college application process.
• Evaluates each student’s work in depth.
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