Advisor Review for Dan Erlandson

January 2015
As Dan prepares for his substantial review in his 31st year of teaching
at Newark Academy, we met to discuss his contributions to the advising
program. Dans experience working with adolescents in so many varied
capacities--teacher, school council advisor, committee and graduation
coordinators and summer school responsibilities-- inform his approach and
his expertise with students.
That approach is one characterized by sincere interest in the well-being
of his advisees. Dan manages the difficult task of establishing the delicate
balance of engagement with his advisees while simultaneously encouraging
their self-sufficiency and independence. As a junior/senior advisor this
balance is critical to their continued growth and maturity as young adults.
Through the years Dan has had an eclectic group of advisees, from those
needing much care, concern and engagement to those needing only positive
acknowledgment of their efforts and successes. Dan meets each advisee at
their own growth point and sincerely and genuinely engages with them on
their individual paths. His advice is grounded in common sense and certainly
his intimate knowledge of academics. As one advisee commented, he
knows everything about anything NA.
His advisees appreciate his interest in them without monitoring their
every move as well as his consistent approachability and ability to relate to
students. Although not necessarily the most eloquent of testimonials, more
than one advisee commented, Hes the man! His advisor group meeting
time provides an opportunity for group discussion or opportunity for
conversation with individual advisees. Without gimmicks or more out-of the
box activities, Dan establishes a safe, casual but productive space for
students to interact with each other and with him.
With all that Dan does for Newark Academy, I am very glad and
grateful that he has maintained his participation in the advising program.
His veteran perspective on what is helpful for teenagers and how to make
that happen are both valuable and valued. Thank you, Dan.
Sincerely,
Carol
Carol Spooner
School Counselor