Rich Township High School District 227 officials are hoping a new family resource coordinator will help students with attendance, academic and emotional problems who might otherwise fall through the cracks.
Verita Quinn gave a brief presentation to the school board Monday night about her work as the family resource coordinator, which she began in August. She has been briefed by principals at the district’s four schools in Matteson, Olympia Fields, Park Forest and Richton Park about which students might need help and has met with several students. Quinn is also researching community organizations that may be able to help students, as well as familiarizing herself with district services.
“I’m a link between students and families, schools and the community, finding resources when needed, whether it be school-related or outside,” said Quinn, adding that she would “try to get the families more involved in the students’ school life.”
The school board decided earlier in the year that the district might need extra help in reaching some at-risk students after school officials identified about 300 students who had problems with absenteeism, tardiness, poor grades or suspensions. The district has 13 guidance counselors, three social workers and three psychologists.
Quinn will be a resource person for staff who may have trouble reaching students or family members, meeting with some parents in the evenings as necessary.
