President's Letter: Authenticity to Connect

Dear NJSCA Members,

As we turn the page on another year, please accept my well wishes for a healthy and happy 2024! May it be a year filled with positive and memorable moments!

I've been reflecting on how our all too hyperconnected world can sometimes feel a bit too . . . filtered. Whether it be Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or LinkedIn, we can often get caught up in crafting the perfect online presence, with goals to launch our careers to the next level, or chasing the next perfect photo op to share on our feeds. At the same time, we did not enter the counseling profession to sit behind our desks each day sending off emails and organizing shared Google drives! As a result of all this tech use, we may often miss being present in all the other unfiltered moments where we can make a lasting impact.

So, this new year, join me in recommitting to be the school leaders that engage in thoughtful discussions getting to know our students, physically visiting classrooms to collaborate with teachers (rather than sending off another email), and forging genuine connections with families and the communities we serve. As school counselors, we have an opportunity to set the example of healthy habits including tech wellness in our schools and districts. Together, let's prioritize authentic interaction over the curated content, stepping away from the screens and into the hallways of our schools, filters be damned.

Please know that NJSCA is an organization that thrives on regular in-person executive board meetings, conferences and events, working together with a mission of “promoting excellence in the school counseling profession and to advocate for the development of all students.” We hope to see you soon and look forward to getting to know you better this year!

Cheers to a 2024 filled with genuine connections and a stronger community!

Contact Jason Sabino, NJSCA president 2023–2024, at jasonjsabino@gmail.com.