Student Support Specialist (SSS)
I can be reached by phone at
(830)885-8859
or email at katherine.gaston@comalisd.org
Please complete this form if you would like to refer a student for mental health support, resources, and additional social service support. I will follow up with you if I have additional questions and to work on scheduling to meet/talk with you.
What Does a Support Specialist Do?
Student Support Specialist help STUDENTS:
Feel empowered to maximize their educational opportunities
Develop coping skills to manage feelings (stress, worry, anger, grief, etc.)
Manage conflict in a healthy manner
Develop decision making skills
Cope with crisis situations
Student Support Specialist help PARENTS:
Link to appropriate resources in the community when medical interventions, therapy, or other specialized services are required
Participate effectively in their children’s education
Understand and meet their children’s social and emotional needs
Access and utilize school and community resources effectively
Student Support Specialist help SCHOOLS:
Communicate with teachers, administrators, counselors and other staff to understand factors (cultural, societal, economic, familial, health, etc.)
Utilize their resources in meeting the educational, social and emotional needs of students
Monitor progress and address social/emotional goals of students receiving special education services
Promote a safe school environment
Create and deliver professional development or in-service training
Student Support Specialist help COMMUNITIES:
Understand school policies, programs and practices
Minimize those environmental factors that inhibit learning
Identify and link to resources to adequately meet the needs of students and families
Collaborate and advocate to benefit students and families
OTHER Support available:
Clothing, Food, School Supplies, Hygiene Supplies, Holiday Assistance, Referrals to Community Resources for qualifying students and/or McKinney-Vento Students