Hi! My name is Olivia Reintsma and I am the 2nd & 3rd grade counselor. I am new to Vista PEAK this year and I look forward to getting to know everyone in this community! I completed my bachelor’s degree at the University of Puget Sound, and I completed my master’s degree in counseling at Adams State University. I am excited to begin my role to support students in their academic, career, and social emotional development while also being a support to families and staff as we work together to care for our students.
This is a one-on-one session where a student meets privately with the counselor, to address personal issues like anxiety, stress, friendship problems, or family changes. These sessions are confidential and tailored specifically to the student's needs.
Regular individual sessions with a school counselor are generally short-term (6-8) weeks. If additional support is needed, Ms. Herring will communicate with parents about referrals for outside therapy.
With parent/guardian consent, the counselor will meet with a small number of students who are all dealing with a similar issue. For example, a group might be formed for students learning how to manage anger, cope with grief, or improve social skills. This setting allows students to share experiences and learn from each other in a safe, guided environment.
For small groups that are designed to teach specific skills, Ms. Herring will send regular communication to parents & guardians about the skills & topics students are learning.
Whole-class lessons cover topics that are relevant to all students in a particular class or grade level. They address aspects of social/ emotional wellbeing such as strategies for managing strong feelings, cultivating empathy, career exploration, and a host of others!
This approach ensures that every student receives important information and skills that can help them succeed.
An Individual Career and Academic Plan guides students and families through career exploration, academic and postsecondary options, and opportunities as they plan for their future.
Students understand their interests, talents and aspirations and use their strengths to continuously define and develop postsecondary and workforce skills.
CAREER EXPOSURE, SELF-KNOWLEDGE, & TRANSITIONING TO MIDDLE SCHOOL.
Exposure to College & Career ideas
Parent Awareness
Essential Skills Development
Social-Emotional Learning
Young Ameritowne (5th grade curriculum and field trip)
For more information about APS' ICAP program, visit the district ICAP website.