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ACADEMICS
High School Counseling at Saint James School
Every student deserves to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. At Saint James School, we believe students learn and grow best when they feel secure and supported. Our high school counseling and academic advising team helps students through academic challenges as well as social, emotional, and mental health concerns.
We work closely with teachers and parents, so every student has a team of caring adults behind them. From course planning to confidential personal guidance, we’re here to help each student realize their individual potential.
Academic Planning and Course Selection
Every student’s path through high school looks a little different, so academic advising at Saint James is individualized from the start. Each year, students work with us on course selection and scheduling. Together, they build a plan that keeps each student on track while leaving room to grow.
Through ongoing advising conversations, students:
We also help students monitor their progress toward graduation, whether they’re pursuing a general diploma or an Honors Diploma.
College Advising
College planning at Saint James is led by our Director of College Advising, Kathryn Bandy, who works alongside our counselor and academic advisor throughout high school. Visit our College Advising page to see where our graduates are accepted and how we guide students through the process.
The High School Counseling Office also coordinates Pre-ACT, PSAT, and AP exam administration, and our counselors provide information about and assistance with the ACT and SAT. In 2025, Saint James students took 228 AP exams across 18 subjects.
Study Skills, Time Management, and Classroom Support
High school brings new demands on a student’s time and attention. We provide time management and study skills information to help students build habits that serve them in the classroom and beyond.
When questions or concerns arise between a student and a teacher, our team can assist with communication and conflict resolution so everyone can move forward together.
For extra help with writing and research, students can book free sessions at the writing and tutoring center in our library, in person or virtually. Peer tutors and the librarian help with everything from first drafts to citations.
Confidential Personal Counseling and Wellness
The high school years can bring real pressures, and we want every student to know where to turn when things feel overwhelming or uncertain. Saint James is committed to a school culture built on safety, respect, and emotional support.
Students can meet one-on-one with our school counselor for:
When a student or family needs additional support, we connect them with resources on campus and in the community. Our office also offers special programs on student wellness and health, and we’re committed to promoting access and equity for every student.
Saint James High School Counseling and Academic Advising
We see parents as partners in supporting each student. If you have a question about your child’s academic plan or well-being, we’re always glad to hear from you.
Mr. Andy Clinton
B.A., Haverford College
M.A., M.A.T., The University of Iowa
Mrs. Joann Reifenberg
B.S., Auburn University
M.Ed., M.Sp.Ed., Auburn University at Montgomery
Frequently Asked Questions About High School Counseling
For questions about course selection, scheduling, testing, or study skills, contact Mr. Clinton. For personal, social, or emotional concerns, or questions about learning support, contact Mrs. Reifenberg. For college planning, contact our Director of College Advising, Kathryn Bandy.
Yes. Each division at Saint James has dedicated counseling support designed for that stage of a child’s growth, from classroom lessons for younger students to course planning in the upper grades. Learn more about our Middle School Counseling Program and Elementary School Counseling Program.
Saint James has a full-time school nurse who helps with students’ individual health needs, manages prescription medications, and responds to emergencies during the school day. Student-athletes also have a Certified Athletic Trainer present at every practice and competition. Learn more about Safety and Wellness at Saint James.
Yes. Mrs. Reifenberg serves as both a high school counselor and a learning specialist, and our Director of Learning Support, Mrs. Kimberly Ramsey, also serves as the middle and high school librarian.
Yes. Through our International Students Program, Saint James welcomes students from around the world, and our English Language Learner teacher, Mrs. Norma Jo Roberts, works with high school students who are building their English proficiency. Learn more about our International Students Program.
Get to Know Saint James
Current families can reach out to our counseling and academic advising team at any time. If your family is considering Saint James, we invite you to visit campus, meet our faculty, and see how we support each student.
