Meet Ms. Newell

Hello!

My name is LaTesha Newell and I am so honored and thrilled to be the school counselor for Mooneyham Elementary. This is my 10th year in education with 5 years in the counseling role in Georgia and 5 years as a special education teacher in Georgia and Frisco ISD. I received my bachelor's degree from Jackson State University, my Master's of School Counseling from Liberty University and currently working on my Ph.D in Developmental Psychology at Liberty University. Some of my favorite hobbies include traveling and exploring new places, going to art galleries and museums, spending time with family or friends, painting, writing poetry and working out!

I am passionate about helping every single student feel loved, safe and respected. I am excited to have the privilege of getting to know and serve the families and students of Mooneyham Elementary. Throughout the year I will provide guidance lessons to all classes, conduct small group counseling, and work individually with students and families to foster success and provide necessary supports. It is my commitment as the counselor to ensure that all students feel valued, connected, and empowered.

If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to reach out!

-Ms. Newell

newelllat@friscoisd.org

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. When should I contact the counselor?

Parents are encouraged to contact the counselor for items listed below*:

There is a significant decrease in a child's grades or lack of motivation for school
I have questions about kindergarten acceleration or exam for acceleration
My child is struggling with a recent death or changes in the family
My family is in need of basic needs (food, clothes, shelter, school supplies)
My child has expressed the desire to harm themself or someone else
My child has questions or concerns about middle school, high school, or college
My child has experienced a trauma
My child is new to Mooneyham

*This is not a complete list, and parents can contact the school counselor at anytime during the year.

2. What does the counselor teach my child during guidance?

The counselor meets monthly with each class for a guidance lesson. The topics are designed to teach students developmental, transferable skills related to education, social emotional, career, and personal. These guidance lessons include, but are not limited to:

Effective Communication Skills
Motivation and Self Awareness
Character Traits
College, Career, Trade, and Military Readiness
Relationships and Personal Boundaries
Forms of Bullying
Responsible Technology Usage
Middle School Registration and Course Selection
Appreciation of All Cultures and Respecting Differences

3. How do I schedule a meeting with the counselor?

Call the Mooneyham Office for an appointment at 469-633-3650
Email Ms. Newell at newelllat@friscoisd.org
Complete this Google Form

4. Is there anything that the school counselor doesn't do?

Yes, according to the Texas Model for School Counselors, there are non-counselor duties that are inappropriate for the school counselor which include:

Assigning any disciplinary actions or consequences
Teaching classes when the teacher is absent
Providing therapy or long term counseling
Testing students on cognitive or achievement test

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