The start of the 2016 school year will also mark the beginning of Jessica Smedley’s new career as the Director of Guidance at Hillsborough High School. At her last job, Smedley worked as the Supervising Counselor at East Windsor Regional High School where she oversaw all of the K-12 school counselors plus assistants. She was also heavily involved in many programs and activities at the school. This is something she is planning to also be a part of at HHS.

As the New Director of Guidance, Smedley isn’t just in charge of the guidance program at the high school, but for the entire Hillsborough School district. She will work closely with counselors from each school to support the program and make sure the needs of students are met.

“One of my goals is to have each elementary school have its own counselor on a full-time basis,” Smedley said.

Making sure children at every school in the district have access to a counselor at any time is something she wants to make a reality. Creating an environment where all students have full time guidance counselor in their school is very important to her.

The beginning of the year is always a busy time for the guidance department. In addition to finalizing student schedules they are also helping seniors prepare to send out college applications and apply for scholarships. Additionally, PSAT, SAT and ACT testing looms on the horizon adding additional stress for counselors. And, if you are looking for a job, you’ll need to pick up working papers at the guidance office.

Smedley is enthusiastic to be working at HHS and is working to understand the culture and everyday life at the school. She has already required her first pieces of Raider-wear. Getting to know students and faculty is something she is looks forward to with enthusiasm. HHS offers many unique and challenging activities for the young minds and working with students and being a part of these events is something Smedley is eager to do.

Tackling any problem or handling tough situations is familiar territory for Smedley and she is up for anything thrown her way. She is always happy to speak with any student about anything or discuss any problems. Appointments can always be made in the guidance office with Smedley’s secretary, Maureen Uniszkiewicz.

“I am so thrilled to be working at HHS!” Smedley stated. HHS is thrilled to have her!