In Denton ISD, we are committed to supporting your child’s academic success and overall well-being. As part of our comprehensive school counseling and support services program, students may have access to a certified school counselor and/or school-based support staff. These services align with the Texas Education Code (TEC §33.005), the Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs, and SB 12 (2025), which now requires parent or guardian permission for students to receive the same counseling and social services support we've always provided.

What Support May Include:

● Setting academic goals and creating academic plans
● Developing social and emotional skills
● Checking in about emotions, challenges, or concerns
● Learning coping strategies and managing stress
● Addressing school-related issues (e.g., attendance, test anxiety, behavior, peer conflict)
● Building friendship and conflict-resolution skills
● Participating in short-term individual or group sessions on school-related topics* 

*Parents/guardians will be notified and asked for additional consent if group counseling is recommended.

Please Note
These school-based supports are not therapy and do not include psychological diagnosis, evaluation, or treatment. If such services are needed, information about appropriate community resources will be made available.

Working in Partnership With You

Our goal is to partner with you in your child’s development. We will reach out to you if there are significant concerns or recommendations for additional support. You may withdraw your consent at any time by notifying us in writing. If an urgent issue arises during the school day, a staff member (teacher, counselor, nurse, or administrator) may check in with your child to ensure safety and support, and we will follow up with you as soon as possible.

If you have questions or would like to meet with your child’s counselor (Candice Hutchings), please don’t hesitate to reach out. Thank you for allowing us to partner with you to support your child’s academic and emotional success.

Meet our School Counseling Interns!

🌟 Meet Our School Counselor Intern, Mrs. Jennifer Medlin! 🌟

Hello families! My name is Jennifer Medlin, and I am thrilled to serve as your school counselor intern. With over 24 years in education—including 20 years as a Title I special education teacher—I bring both experience and a heart for supporting students in every area of their growth.

As a counselor intern, my mission is to help every student feel seen, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential. I work with students individually, in small groups, and in classrooms to build important skills such as resilience, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and goal-setting. I also support academic planning, college and career readiness, and social-emotional learning, so students are prepared not only for school, but for life beyond it.

Families can count on me to be a partner in their child’s success. I believe that strong relationships are the foundation of growth, and I am passionate about helping students navigate challenges, celebrate their strengths, and discover the unique gifts they bring to our school community.

Whether a student needs help managing stress, exploring future goals, or just someone to listen, I am here to support them every step of the way. I look forward to working together with you to ensure your child has a positive, successful, and meaningful school experience.

Please check out our Amazon Wishlist for our Schoolwide Store!

Please check out the School Counselor Wishlist!