Transition Counselor

  • Counselor Mrs. Jocelyn Secen
    PRHS Transition Counselor
    724-625-4444, x1674
    jsecen@pinerichland.org

    PR welcomed Jocelyn Secen as the district's transition counselor in September of 2019.  The transition counselor helps to advise students on course placement and Individualized Education Program planning. The counselor also serves as the liaison between the school and outside community agencies and provides help regarding transition services, activities and other programs.

    Jocelyn most recently served as an elementary/middle school guidance counselor at Monessen School District. Prior, she served as an elementary emotional support teacher and a third-grade learning support teacher.

    She earned a Master's Degree in School Counseling from the California University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary and Special Education from Westminster College. She is taking over for Mr. Shawn McCartan.

     

    As a transition counselor, I help students with secondary transition:
     
    What is Secondary Transition?
    Secondary transition is the process of preparing students for adult life after they leave high school. In the state of Pennsylvania, transition planning begins at age 14 or younger, as determined appropriate by the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) team. The planning process helps students consider their goals for the time after graduation through career awareness exploration activities. The transition continues through high school as academic instruction and community experiences help clarify and support students’ goals. The process is based on each student’s needs, taking into account their strengths, preferences, and interests. Transition is a bridge between school programs and the opportunities for adult life. These opportunities often include higher education or training, employment, independent living, and community participation.
    Secondary transition is a process that:
     
    •       Uses assessment to identify a student’s post-secondary goals
    •       Describes the student’s present level of academic achievement & functional performance
    •       Establishes transition team partnerships
    •       Designs a transition plan that includes courses of study & services/activities
    •       Determines measurable annual goals that address skill deficits & lead to post-secondary goals
    •       Monitors progress and adjusts instruction based on data
    I also serve as the liaison between the school and outside community agencies and provide help regarding transition services, activities, and other programs.
     
    I look forward to getting to know all of my students, as well as their families.
     
    If you ever have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call (724-625-4444 x1674) or email me (jsecen@pinerichland.org) at any time. I am so excited to work with your child and get to know you throughout the school year!
     
    Sincerely,
     
    Mrs. Jocelyn Secen
    Transition Counselor
    Pine-Richland High School 

     

    Transition Happenings - Calendar of Transition Events