The Top 5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. When should I contact the counselor?

Parents are encouraged to contact Mrs. Duckworth for any of the 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 the 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 self 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 Sparks and struggling to adjust

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

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

Mrs. Duckworth 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. Some 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 Mrs. Duckworth?

• Call the Sparks Elementary Main Office for an appointment.

• Call Mrs. Duckworth directly at 469-633-3004

• Email Mrs. Duckworth at duckworthc@friscoisd.org

4. How does Mrs. Duckworth select program goals for the school?

A Needs Assessment is created for parents and teachers to complete at the beginning of the school year. The information from the survey is used as data to design 2-3 SMART Goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound) for the school. Mrs. Duckworth collaborates with students, teachers, PTA, administrators, district personnel, and community members to support the campus goals. At the end of the school year, a survey is sent to parents and teachers to assess the campus goals.

5. Is there anything that Mrs. Duckworth doesn't do?

Yes, according to the Texas Model for School Counselors, there are non-counselor duties that are inappropriate for Mrs. Duckworth. Those 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