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Counseling

Middle school counselors guide students through academic, social, and career development while supporting parents with resources and communication.

Course Descriptions

You can explore Hillside Middle School’s course descriptions, along with details about our International Baccalaureate Program and the academic resources that support student learning.

 

2025-2026 Middle School Course Descriptions

Educational Development Plan (EDP)

An Educational Development Plan (EDP) is a document showing a student’s current interests, abilities, and career pathways.  It is more comprehensive than a schedule of classes because it includes information a student can use to make wise choices about post-secondary options.

Why have an EDP?

The State of Michigan requires that students must be given the opportunity to create an EDP beginning in the 7th grade and revises it appropriately throughout high school.  An EDP is designed to assist students to identify career development goals as they relate to academic requirements, which may be fulfilled through career and technical education.

Counselors meet with all classes to instruct students on updating their EDP annually.  The essential elements for updating an EDP are exploring careers, projected job openings, educational/training goals, career interest surveys, activities, experiences, and plans of action.

Xello Online Program for Student EDPs

Xello is an engaging online program that helps students in grades 6–12 create their very own, unique roadmap for future success—enabling them to discover their own personalized pathway through self-knowledge, exploration and planning. Built on a proven model for student success, Xello aligns to the Michigan Career Development Model, including Educational Development Plans (EDP) and Talent Portfolios.

The Student Experience with Xello
  • Building Self-knowledge: Students define their interests, skills, preferences, and aspirations so they can explore the opportunities right for them.
  • Explore Options: Students learn about career possibilities and educational pathways by exploring rich engaging content and lessons.
  • Create a Plan: Students create dynamic actionable plans that outline the steps needed to achieve school, career, and life goals.
  • Learn and Reassess: As students gain experience, knowledge, and skills, they can reassess and change their plans for the future.
Parent Involvement

You’re encouraged to explore Xello with your child by logging in together. Your child can log in to his or her account via desktop or mobile device to share what they’ve learned about themselves, the world of work, and their future options.

Hillside Counselors

To speak with a counselor by phone, please call the main Hillside phone number at (248) 344-3600.

6th Grade

Mary Daar, MA, LPC, NCC
Middle School Counselor
daarma@northvilleschools.org

7th Grade 

Jane M. Hart, M.A.
Middle School Counselor
hartja@northvilleschools.org

8th Grade

Stephanie Smyth MA, LPC, SCL
Middle School Counselor
smythst@northvilleschools.org

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