The Kent School District (KSD), in collaboration with the Kent Education Association (KEA), has unveiled an updated Advisory Program for students in grades 6 through 12 aimed at better supporting their academic, personal, and future career success. A dedicated committee of educators and stakeholders worked throughout the year to redesign the program with a focus on increasing student engagement and preparing learners for graduation and life beyond school.
Middle School Advisory Highlights
Middle school students will continue to meet weekly for 40-minute advisory sessions designed to create a supportive and inclusive environment. The program centers around five key pillars:
Building Community:
Encouraging school spirit, understanding policies, and fostering belonging.
Middle School 101:
Helping sixth graders transition smoothly into middle school and connecting students to available resources.
Social Emotional Learning:
Developing emotional intelligence and resilience aligned with state standards.
Academic Success and Support:
Promoting a growth mindset and tracking attendance and academic progress.
Thinking Beyond Middle School:
Beginning early planning for high school and beyond.
New this year, students in grades 6-8 will receive a Pass/No Credit grade for advisory based on completion of assigned tasks, including High School and Beyond plan components, submitted through the Canvas platform.
High School Advisory Enhancements
High school students will participate in weekly 35-minute advisory sessions held on Wednesdays, fostering stronger student-teacher connections and consistent engagement. The course covers a wide range of topics designed to prepare students for life after graduation:
Social Emotional Learning and resilience-building
Guidance on graduation requirements and post-secondary planning
Community building and school spirit
Life skills including job searching, resume writing, and interview techniques
Transition support for 9th graders
Pathways to college, careers, entrepreneurship, and military service
Academic monitoring and support, including fiscal and computer literacy
Self-awareness, mindset development, and learning strategies
Graduation pathway planning
Communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills
High school students will now earn Pass/No Credit grades and can earn 0.25 credits per semester by completing the majority of required assignments via Canvas. Seniors have the added opportunity to fulfill community service hours as part of their advisory work.
Students enrolled in Running Start typically do not attend advisory classes but must still complete the High School and Beyond Plan through Canvas and counselor support.
The district believes these program improvements will equip students with the essential tools for academic success and personal growth. Parents and guardians are encouraged to support their children in participating fully and connecting with school staff for assistance.
Thank you to the members of the Advisory Committee who dedicated their time and expertise to this important work. Your commitment to supporting our schools and students is truly appreciated.
For more information, families can reach out to their student’s school counselors or career center staff.