As a techie Counselor, I naturally was drawn to the software suite that is Naviance.
Naviance is a well rounded package that allows school officials, counselors, students, and parents to research, plan, and proceed to apply to colleges around the globe. I knew when I started that I wanted to try to get Naviance into my new school. I needed to know where to get started in making that happen.
I used the contact option on Naviance’s website and was contacted by a rep. We had about an hour long call while he explained some of the features, rough costs estimates, and how to go about making the next steps. I took careful notes and set a meeting date to talk with my principal.
During the time between, I also worked on applying for a grant that would help fund Naviance. I know all schools are tight with their budgets and figured it would be easier going if I could provide my own funding — at least for the first year. After the first year, I anticipate success and the desire to go back to “the old way” will go to the wayside.
Doing my research and creating a good pitch, I contacted Daniel Obregon (@dobregon), the marketing VP of Hobson (the maker of Naviance) and a PLN mate, asking for some help with finding data to validate some of my reasons for desiring Naviance. He was able to provide strong support and recent articles showcasing schools’ success stories.
Next week, I meet with my principal and submit my grant proposal for funding. I will let you know how it goes and I am hoping to get Naviance up and running within the next two months.
The blog author, Jeffrey Ream M.S, PPS, writes for The Counseling Geek. Connect with Jeff via email, Twitter, Google+, and Facebook.
I’d love to know how it goes. I tried to get Naviance for my school district last year. It didn’t happen, my super “wanted a test drive” of the software and Naviance couldn’t/wouldn’t give it up. We were looking to spend nearly $70,000. I love Naviance and want it for all of our high schools and middle schools. I haven’t given up on it yet.
Wow – that is quite a large investment Donna. Mine will be at the site level and hopefully show the successes and lead to a district wide implementation. I know the superintendent has had experience with it and unofficially voiced his support for getting it at the three high schools in the district. I will share the research that I find as well in the next few blog posts!