We are excited to offer professional development sessions for the counselors at CMU partner schools. These sessions give participants the opportunity to engage with other school counselors and workshop presenters. The sessions are virtual and SCECHs will be provided for certification renewal. For questions or more information, please contact Tim Odykirk at TOdykirk@TheCenterForCharters.org.

Past Events

Understanding Military Pathways for Your Students

March 22, 2023 / 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Join the Army ROTC and CMU Department of Military Science and Leadership for this session where we will explore educational and career opportunities that the military can provide to your students.

You will learn more about:

  • The traditional enlistment route following high school graduation, Military Occupational Specialties, and career benefits.
  • Going to college and entering as an officer either through ROTC programs, the Army Academy, or post-graduation.
  • The differences between the career pathways of active duty, National Guard, and the Reserves.
  • The Army ROTC at CMU and other universities, including the requirements for acceptance and life as a Cadet.

This session is a great opportunity to obtain 1.75 SCECHs for license renewal in the required 25 credits for career consultation of which five must include an exploration of military career options.

College: Let’s Do This!

January 25, 2023 / 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

The Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) works to overturn the barriers preventing many students from accessing postsecondary education by offering initiatives and programs that can empower students to thrive and make a positive impact in their communities. MCAN’s Director of High School Innovation, Jeneen Hatoum, presents on MCAN’s initiatives, resources, and opportunities available to your school that will help you be a successful guide for your students in college degree and certificate attainment.

You will walk away with information on current post-secondary college attainment information best practices. You will also see what resources MCAN has to support your current college attainment programming or aid in building or redesigning your program.

Substance Abuse Virtual Event

January 19, 2022 / 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Substance abuse is a continuing issue in communities and schools across the country. The exposure to and dependence on substances increased during the pandemic and school partners should know the signs of usage. During this session, we will hear from the Gratiot County Substance Abuse Coalition and the St. Louis Chief of Police on the current state of addiction and narcotic drugs in Michigan. The presenters will discuss the drivers behind addiction, how to identify clues of addiction, terminology for various narcotics, and tools to help students and families.

Student and Staff Mental Health Virtual Event

March 16, 2022 / 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Over the last two years, students have experienced emotional and social trauma and their interactions during the school day are reflective of unaddressed concerns. Teachers are leaving the profession at alarming rates due to stress and tending to their mental health is essential. Therefore, mental health in K-12 settings must be a primary focus for all schools for the foreseeable future. This session will offer tools to support students and staff during the final weeks of this school year and proactive resources for continued support for the 2022-2023 school year.

Suicide Prevention Virtual Event

May 18, 2022 / 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Thoughts of self-harm and suicide are increasing among school-aged children. School-based staff, parents, and community partners need to be equipped with skills to recognize when someone is experiencing a personal battle and the steps to connect them to mental health professionals for support. This session will provide an overview of suicide-related data for our state, programs to increase awareness in schools, and tools for immediate intervention. Below are free Michigan Virtual courses that grant SCECHs.