The Lighthouse Program

The Lighthouse Program

The Lighthouse Program is a transitional program that provides clinical support, academic planning and tutoring for students enrolled at Bedford High School who are returning to school after an extended absence (5 or more days) due to illness, concussion, or hospitalization.

When students miss school for an extended period, their transition back often brings both academic and social challenges. To make the adjustment to a regular school routine as smooth as possible, Lighthouse provides support to promote social/emotional stability and academic progress. Lighthouse coordinates Bedford High School’s school counselors, adjustment counselors, and faculty to help facilitate a successful reintegration.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1)    What support does Lighthouse offer?

A comprehensive intake to assess a student’s social/emotional and academic needs when returning to school from an extended absence

A ‘home-base’ room where students can check in during the day, receive tutoring, do make-up work and get counseling support

Collaboration with teachers to ensure that students can complete the appropriate coursework to successfully return to their classes

Emotional support for teens and families to help to reduce the anxiety of returning to school and to make a smooth transition to prevent school avoidance

Communication between student, school personnel, medical professionals, therapists, and other outside providers and support finding community resources

A caring environment that provides a student with the opportunity to better understand his/her/their choices and develop sustainable patterns

Academic and emotional observation/assessment to ensure appropriate environment for student success

A graduation meeting where we ensure that appropriate long term supports are in place

2)    How long are students in Lighthouse?

Lighthouse is a short-term transition program tailored to each individual. Each student has a unique set of needs as he or she returns to a full schedule. Participation in the program is usually up to six weeks.

3)    Will confidentiality be maintained?

School personnel, including teachers, school counselors, nursing staff, and adjustment counselors are made aware of a family’s decision to participate in the Lighthouse service; however, any information that is shared regarding the student’s absence from school is approved by the students and parents

4)    Once enrolled, how does communication with Lighthouse work?

Lighthouse will provide weekly contact with parent(s) or guardian(s)  and teachers about such topics as the student’s transition to class, academic difficulties, and student progress. Family members are encouraged to contact the Lighthouse clinician as needed when a student is enrolled.

5)    In the event my child is hospitalized, what is the process?

Upon hospitalization, please contact your child’s school counselor to discuss various aspects of the return to school as soon as possible. You can discuss the option of Lighthouse with the school counselor.

Per school policy, you and your child need to attend a re-entry meeting at school when he or she returns.

6)    Whom can I speak to further about the Lighthouse service?

If you have questions about the program, please call or email your child’s school counselor directly.