Schreiber director of guidance details college-counseling overhaul and local admissions results

Justin Arrini, the district—s director of guidance, told the Port Washington curriculum committee that the school—s college-counseling work has shifted from year-end application help to a multiyear, equity-focused program aimed at improving long-term student outcomes.

"We—re not just helping students complete applications anymore," Arrini said. "We—re guiding them through a multiyear program and process that includes academic planning, social-emotional support, and long-term goal setting." He framed counseling as a series of four phases—exploration, planning, application assistance and financial-aid navigation—that begin as early as ninth grade.

Why it matters: Arrini showed the committee local results and national trends to argue for earlier, more individualized advising. He said 90% of the Class of 2025 pursued postsecondary education and that, of those who went on to college, about 93.7% enrolled in four-year institutions. The presentation stressed that strong test scores and grades no longer guarantee admission because institutions use a wider set of strategies—including expanded early programs and active recruitment—to shape incoming classes.

Key data and context: Arrini said Schreiber students outperform New York averages on standardized tests and advanced coursework. He cited a higher-than-average ACT composite (about 28 versus a New York State average of 25) and…