Director+of+Pupil+Personnel+Services

Period 4 Mrs. Ritacco

**// Mr. Michael Biggan - Director of Pupil Personnel Services //**
 * __Education__**
 * Grew up in Kearney, NJ
 * Undergraduate – Boston College
 * Master’s – Fordham University


 * __Career__**
 * Was a teacher
 * In a Chicago Catholic school
 * 5th grade
 * Taught High School
 * Guidance Counselor
 * Ramsey High School
 * Director of Guidance – Keyport High School
 * Stayed one year then transferred to HPREG


 * __His current position__**
 * Supervises the guidance counselors
 * Splits his time between WP and HP
 * Reports to the Superintendant
 * Consults the school principals


 * __A typical day__**
 * Early to read emails and prepare
 * Has unpredictable days
 * Meetings
 * Counselors
 * His secretary
 * Principals / Asst. Principals


 * __Personal characteristics to be successful in this career__**
 * Problem Solver
 * Have good judgment / be a good decision maker
 * Be comfortable with a constantly changing schedule/uncertainty
 * Stress management
 * Once problems escalate to him they are usually serious.
 * Likes young people
 * Outgoing
 * Challenge students to achieve
 * Confident public speaker
 * Must be empathetic


 * __Personal Achievements__**
 * This is the job he’s always wanted
 * Loving and supportive family


 * __The most rewarding part of his career__**
 * Watching students grow and succeed
 * Having an influence in students’ lives


 * __Least favorite part of his job__**
 * Paperwork!


 * __Changes he would like to see in the District__**
 * Increase the number of AP courses
 * Increase the opportunities for students.
 * Align the district’s guidance department to national standards