• What does an Elementary Counselor do?

    Elementary School Counselors help students succeed academically, personally and socially through education and exploration in the following ways:

    How do I work with students?
    CLASSROOM GUIDANCE: I visit each classroom throughout the year to give presentations on various topics such as bullying, social skills, drugs & alcohol, peer pressure, choices & decisions, careers, tobacco, middle school transition, and goals. The majority of my time is spent proactively in the classroom.

    INDIVIDUAL COUNSELING: Students are able to meet with me on a one-on-one basis. Your child may be referred to me by the principal, teacher(s), parents, or self. My role as a counselor is not to give “advice.” As I explain to the students, they can think of me as a coach. I help students to solve problems and create life strategies. I do not simply give them the answers. If a student needs to see me on an ongoing basis, the parent will be contacted and a permission slip sent home.
    On average, ongoing counseling lasts 3-4 sessions. If a child needs additional counseling past the 3-4 sessions, usually a referral is made to an outside agency.

    SMALL GROUP GUIDANCE: Should a need arise, students also have the opportunity to meet with me in small groups. A group can be from 3-6 students who meet for approximately 4 weeks / once per week for 30-45 minutes on a given topic. Groups are educational in nature and provide students with positive peer support.


    NOTE:
    School Counselors do NOT do mental health diagnosis, nor does student participation in individual or group counseling go into a child’s permanent record.

    How do I work with parents?
    INFORMATIONAL PARENT MEETINGS (Parent Talks): I provide information sessions several times a year on various topics of concern. Parent-Talks consist of both a presentation and discussion. Check out the "Newsletter" link and report cards for details.
    CONSULTATION: I am a resource for parents and and am available to help you to develop strategies to help your child be successful academically and personally. Check out my tips for "Parents" link.