Confidentiality is an important part of our small group work. Students are taught that what is shared in group stays in group—unless there is a safety concern. However, our students are typically 5-7 years old. Please understand the limitations this places on guaranteeing confidentiality. I do my best to limit and guide conversations that may be too intense for the entire group and follow-up one:one with students as needed. While I will keep parents informed about general progress, I do not share specific student comments unless it involves their safety or well-being. This helps build trust and allows students to participate openly.
When appropriate, different service providers in the building may collaborate together to best meet the needs of students. This may include the school psychologist, school counselor, speech and language pathologist, intervention specialist, occupational therapist, adapted physical educator, physical therapist, military family life counselor, mental health therapist, etc.. We work as a team to best meet the holistic needs of our students and families. Anytime providers or staff are facilitating a small group collaboratively, it will be appropriately noted on the small group permission form.
Students can be referred by a parent/guardian or any staff member for a small group. Group topics are determined by the needs in our school. A referral does not guarantee placement; participation depends on level of need and available space. To make a referral please email your students teacher and the school counselor.
Students may not participate in small group services without a signed parent/guardian permission form. These will be sent out by the school counselor once small group placement has been determined.
If a student is referred to a small group but the setting is not a good fit—or they may benefit more from one-on-one support—we may adjust their participation. My goal is always to meet each child’s needs in the most effective way.
Family Changes Group (K-2)
Supports students experiencing changes at home such as divorce, separation, blending families, or loss. These groups can be as small as two students with similar issues who may benefit from the connection as they are created organically with a variety of resources appropriate to the type of family change.
A Zoo of Skills (Kindergarten & 1st)
Builds foundational skills including self-control, working memory, cognitive flexibility, organization, following multi-step directions, focus, and self-awareness with a safari themed curriculum. Students will play a variety of games to help their overall school success.
Worry Warriors (Grade 2)
Helps students understand and manage anxiety. Anxiety and ADHD often occur together, with research showing that 25–50% of children with ADHD also meet criteria for an anxiety disorder (Pliszka, 2000).
School Success (Grades 1–2)
Introduces the concept of executive functioning skills—such as following multi-step directions, planning, working memory, organization, and self-control—in a developmentally appropriate way. These skills begin developing in early childhood but continue maturing into the mid-20s, with significant growth in the elementary years (Anderson, 2002). This group gives students extra support to strengthen these skills early.
Self-Regulation Groups (K-2)
Developmentally based lessons using books, videos, and curricula like Spots of Emotion and An Aquarium of Emotions. These groups develop self-awareness and self-management skills through building students emotional vocabulary, understanding of feelings, and explore new coping strategies.
Friendship & Social Skills Group (K-2)
Helps students learn how to make and keep friends, practice taking turns, share ideas, resolve conflicts respectfully, and build empathy. Activities focus on communication skills, teamwork, and understanding others’ perspectives.
Eagle Leaders Recess Crew (Grade 2)
Once a week, second grade Eagle Leaders join a kindergarten recess to model SOAR behavior, make connections, introduce safe new games, and encourage inclusive play.
SOAR Squad (K-2)
Reinforces school-wide SOAR values—Safety, Ownership, Attitude, and Respect—through a variety of activities, books, and discussion.
These services are being provided to support your student’s academic, social, and emotional growth and are in alignment with
Board Policy 5780 – Parents Bill of Rights, which guides how we provide supportive services to meet student needs. Parents/Guardians may choose to Opt-Out of these supportive services at any time during the school year. To do so, please contact your students teacher, building administration, or school counselor.