Educational Support Services (ESS)
The Educational Support Services (ESS) Department supports student success by providing comprehensive services for students in grades K–12. Our mission is to help every student reach their full academic and personal potential by addressing barriers to learning and promoting overall well-being.
Working in partnership with families, educators, and community organizations, ESS ensures students receive the guidance, resources, and support needed to thrive in school and beyond.
SCHOOL COUNSELORS
School counselors support student achievement and well-being through comprehensive, developmentally appropriate programs that promote academic success, social-emotional growth, and future readiness.
Services include but are not limited to:
- Individual and small-group counseling
- Academic planning, goal setting, and college/career readiness
- Social-emotional skill development and conflict resolution
- Crisis response and short-term student support
- Classroom lessons and school-wide programming focused on social-emotional learning, career exploration, post-secondary planning, and mental health awareness
- Collaboration with families, school staff, and community resources to support student success
School counselors collaborate closely with teachers, administrators, families, and community partners to ensure students receive the appropriate support and referrals when needed. By fostering strong relationships and open communication, counselors help students navigate challenges, set goals, and grow into confident, capable learners.
SAFE AND DRUG-FREE SCHOOLS PROGRAM
The Safe and Drug-Free Schools Program promotes healthy decision-making and a safe learning environment through prevention, education, and early intervention. The program supports students by integrating evidence-based practices that address substance abuse prevention and student wellness.
Key program components include:
- Curriculum Integration: Substance abuse prevention education incorporated into classroom instruction to promote healthy choices and life skills.
- Professional Development: Training for educators and staff to recognize warning signs, intervene appropriately, and support student well-being.
- Student Support Services: Access to counseling, mentorship, and peer support programs for students impacted by or at risk for substance use.
- School - Community Partnerships: Collaboration with local agencies, health professionals, and law enforcement to strengthen prevention and intervention efforts.
Through these initiatives, the district remains committed to maintaining safe, inclusive, and drug-free schools where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
SUPPORT FOR TEMPORARILY DISPLACED OR HOMELESS STUDENTS
The East Orange School District is committed to ensuring educational stability for students experiencing homelessness or temporary displacement. In accordance with the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, the district works to remove barriers to enrollment, attendance, and academic success.
Students may qualify for support if they are:
- Living in shelters, motels, or temporary housing
- Sharing housing with other families due to loss of housing or economic hardship
- Living in cars, parks, or other places not intended for regular housing
The district is committed to ensuring that all students, regardless of housing status, have equitable access to educational opportunities and the support necessary to succeed.
EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT SERVICES DEPARTMENT
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Corey Smallwood
Supervisor
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Chrystalene Ogle
Assistant Secretary |
Leigh Garwin, C.T
Educational Support Specialist
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Elizabeth Fallon Counselor Trainer Send Email |
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