School Counseling Deparment--What is it?? What do we do??

Welcome to Miss Cline’s counseling website! I know that this year will be wonderful and am looking forward to getting to know each and every student. I want to explain just what a school counselor does at the school in hopes that everyone will understand what my job is.

I believe that children thrive in environments in which they feel safe and respected. Children need to feel that they can succeed on their own and have support when they need it. Students at Fork Shoals should not feel afraid to ask for help whether it be on an academic level, personal level, or social level. I will strive to work with the parents, staff, and community to advocate for the students. Together we can create a supportive environment addressing the children’s developmental needs as they face the unique challenges of growing up in today’s world.

There are many parts of a school counselor’s job. I will wear many different hats throughout the year, because my role will be constantly changing as different needs arise in our school community related to: students, parents, teachers, administrators, and community members.

What does the School Counselor do?

School Counselors provide a variety of services related children and adults. Classroom Guidance, Small Group Guidance, Individual Guidance, and Consultations with parents and teachers are among the services offered.

Classroom Guidance

I will visit each classroom at Fork Shoals once a month. During these scheduled lessons we will discuss a variety of material intended to help students in the areas of academics, social issues, and career decisions. We will discuss the Seven Habits by Steven Covey. We will also tie our lessons into our IB attitudes and student profile.

Small Group Counseling

Small Group counseling will be provided for students that might need a little extra attention on certain topics. Small Groups will usually consist of about six to eight students and the counselor. The topics will be decided as needs arise. Students will be given a permission form to bring home to parents before participating in small group activities. Common group topics are:

• Anger Management

• Friendship and Self Esteem

• Grief and Loss

• Study Skills

Individual Counseling

I will provide individual counseling to students that request to speak with me or students that are referred by a teacher or parent. Strategies will be decided based on what each particular student’s needs are. This service will be provided on short term basis. If the student needs services that are beyond the realm of a school counselor, outside resources will be suggested.

Consultation

The School Counselor, Teachers, and Parents work together to support children.

As an elementary counselor I will work with parents, teachers, and administrators to:

1. exchange and gather information

2. provide recommendations

3. discuss parenting concerns

4. provide information, materials, referral assistance

5. address student needs

6. promote a positive learning environment

Thank you for taking the time to learn a little bit about my job here at Fork Shoals School . I know that everyone can be successful this year and will work hard to do their best.