What Makes a Good Advisor?

Posted by Douglas Parker Mar 16, 2008

More so than others, gifted students need to have a strong, positive relationship with a caring adult that will work with him or her in making the best possible academic and social decisions as a function of personalized instruction. In this regard, many schools have advisors or coaches for students. Rather than making this report an expository declaration, I decided instead just to list off some of the behaviors of being a good advisor that I have observed over the years.

Some of the qualities of good advising include:

-Being the adult connection with the student.

-Helping the student want to stay in school.

-Communicating often with the parents. Will call well ahead of end of marking period if the student is in any danger of failing or dropping a significant amount.

-Having the “big picture” about a student.

-Helps with college counseling.

-Provides a safe place for students to vent their concerns.

-Helps break down cliques.

-Has an easy sense of humor.

-Is not critical, yet gives honest feedback.

-Provides a place for a student to belong.

-Advocates for the student.

-Works with the assistant principal on any and all discipline issues.

-Will initiate peer-mediation when conflicts arise.

-Reads research on gifted education, and understands the special needs.

-Is aware of local and national gifted issues.

-Always is on the lookout for chances for differentiated instruction.

-Tries to enrich every teaching assignment.

-Provides academic and personal advisement.

-Coordinates and records all grades, special projects, accomplishments, etc.