East Rockaway’s counseling center isn’t just a resource - it’s a game-changer. With a personalized and comprehensive approach to academic planning, social development and career readiness, the center ensures that every student has the tools they need to succeed. Unlike larger districts where students may struggle to get one-on-one guidance, East Rockaway UFSD’s small size allows its counselors to provide an unparalleled level of individualized attention, helping students navigate high school and plan for their futures with expert support.

The counseling center offers a wealth of opportunities that set East Rockaway students apart from their peers, giving them a competitive advantage in college admissions, career planning and personal development. Through the counseling center’s monthly newsletter (sent home via ParentSquare and posted to the counseling center’s web page), students and families can stay informed about college fairs, SAT prep, application deadlines, financial aid opportunities and more - ensuring that no student misses out on the benefits available to them.

East Rockaway’s counseling center goes beyond the basics, providing students with a wealth of exclusive college and career readiness opportunities that rival those of private schools. They also offer academic and test prep resources to ensure student success, as well as financial aid and scholarship guidance. In addition to college and career planning, East Rockaway’s counselors are also committed to each student’s emotional wellness and supporting them every step of the way through their K-12 journey. Below are just a few of the programs the counseling center offers:

* Holler Future Fair – An annual event co-hosted with neighboring districts, this fair connects students with college and trade school representatives from across the country. Attendees tour Molloy University, learn about financial aid and participate in college admissions panels.
* Free College Visits – Sophomores and juniors can tour SUNY Farmingdale, NYIT, Iona University and Queens College at no cost, gaining firsthand insight into college life.
* Concurrent Enrollment with Nassau Community College – Students can take college-level courses while still in high school, earning valuable credits before graduation.
* College Application Boot Camps – These intensive workshops help students craft strong applications, develop essays and navigate the admissions process with expert guidance.
* Free SAT Prep – A five-week course for 10th and 11th graders designed to boost confidence and scores.
* Regents Review Academies – Free, subject-specific tutoring in math, science, social studies, English and world languages to help students excel on their Regents exams.
* Method Learning App – Free access to Methodize, an SAT/ACT prep tool available through students’ Classlink accounts.
* Financial Aid Night – A dedicated session to help seniors and their families navigate the complex college financial aid process.
* Comprehensive Financial Aid Guide – A detailed resource for families who may have missed the in-person session.
* 529 College Savings Plan Education – Workshops to help parents financially prepare for their children’s education.
* Therapy Dog Program –Sloopy, East Rockaway’s new therapy dog, helps reduce stress and promote student wellness.
* Middle School Transition Support – Counselors assist younger students in adjusting to high school, managing coursework and obtaining working papers.
* Elementary School Career Week – Family members share their professional experiences, exposing students to a wide range of career possibilities.

One of the standout offerings of the counseling center is a 70-page guide given to juniors and seniors, covering everything from SAT registration and college applications to essay writing, financial aid and even military service options. This level of in-depth support is typically only available through private college counseling services - often costing families upwards of $10,000. At East Rockaway, it’s offered free of charge, giving students access to elite-level preparation without the financial burden.

East Rockaway students have a rare and valuable advantage - a dedicated counseling center that provides resources most public schools simply can’t match. The district urges students take full advantage of these resources - stay informed, attend events, sign up for workshops and utilize the personalized guidance available.

For more information, visit ERHS Counseling Center [Click here to view the counseling center website], follow them on Instagram @ersdcounselors and be sure to read their monthly newsletter to stay up to date on all the incredible opportunities available.