DePaul College Prep

The Counseling program fosters the holistic development of each student within DePaul College Prep's Vincentian Catholic framework. In partnership with families, faculty, and the broader community, it provides a data-driven counseling approach that emphasizes academic achievement, college and career readiness, and social-emotional well-being. Guided by the core values of Faith, Respect, Excellence, Service, and Health, the program creates an inclusive environment where students develop independence, resilience, and moral responsibility. School counselors address students' academic, personal/social, and college/career needs through individual counseling. They support self-management and emotional regulation, and connect students with outside resources when appropriate. The goal is for students to become confident self-advocates and compassionate leaders.

DePaul College Prep provides support for diverse learners with diagnosed learning differences. Learning specialists offer targeted strategy support in reading comprehension, written expression, math, and executive functioning, with instructional support provided inside and outside the classroom. They manage classroom and testing accommodations to ensure students receive needed supports, while maintaining close communication with teachers, parents, and outside professionals. The program also focuses on developing independent learners by teaching the success attributes of self-awareness, proactivity, perseverance, goal setting, use of support systems, and emotional coping strategies. Eligibility requires a diagnosed learning disability and/or ADHD documented in an IEP, 504 plan, or private evaluation, with documentation submitted by August 1 to receive additional support. Depending on the student, support may include structured study halls, one-on-one meetings, or co-taught classes, with the aim of reducing support as independence grows.

Mental wellbeing is integrated into the counseling program as part of the school's holistic approach. School counselors address emotional regulation, self-management, and other personal/social needs, and connect students to outside supports when appropriate. The team includes a school social worker who collaborates with counselors and families to support students. A range of immediate supports is available, including a 24-hour crisis helpline and the DePaul Prep hotline for emergencies. Additional crisis and mental health resources are listed within the school's community resources, including access to neuropsychological evaluations and local therapy providers as needed. The overall aim is to help students navigate challenges with resilience and timely support.

Safety is prioritized. The Safety Reporting Form allows any member of the school community to report safety concerns, including harassment or bullying, with a school official following up on all reports. In emergencies, call 911.