Mrs. Watkins
James Poole Elementary
Irons-Smith Intermediate
School Counselor PK-5
2025-2026
Embedded Files
Meet the Counselor
My name is Vanessa Watkins and I have been an educator for fourteen years. Previously, I taught 2nd grade for eleven years. This is my fourth year as the school counselor for the Elementary and Intermediate campuses. I have been married for fourteen years to my husband Dustyn and have two daughters. I enjoy reading, gardening, listening to music, swimming, and spending time with my family. I received my Bachelor's degree from Sam Houston State University in 2010 and received my Master's in School Counseling from Angelo State University in May 2021. I am excited to lead our students, staff, and community in working towards positive character traits, coping skills, lifelong lessons, and resources.
Counseling Mission Statement-
The mission of James Poole Elementary & Irons-Smith Intermediate's school counseling program is to provide a comprehensive counseling program that promotes development in academic, social, and emotional areas by providing guidance, leadership, and support through direct and indirect services. The school counselor will partner with parents or guardians, educators, the surrounding community, and all stakeholders to guide students toward reaching their full potential, becoming productive citizens, and gaining a solid foundation for future learning. James Poole Elementary & Irons-Smith Intermediate's school counseling program will promote high academic achievement, positive behaviors, and self-confidence for all students.
What does the school counselor do?
Listen & provide support
Advocate for student needs
Help with goal setting, academic strategies, and skills
Class character lessons
Small-group counseling lessons
Individual counseling lessons
Teach students to manage emotions
Help deal with a crisis
Help parents with community resources, transitions, and student problems
What does the school counselor NOT do?
Diagnose disorders
Prescribe medication
Interfere with outside counseling
Disciplinary actions
Office, lunch, car duties
Testing coordination
CHARACTER EDUCATION
Texas students will learn character traits, such as: courage, honesty, trustworthiness, loyalty, integrity, respect, responsibility, fairness, justice, patience, good citizenship, patriotism, school pride, and gratitude.
Yearly Lesson Plan-
James Poole Elementary and Irons-Smith Intermediate is proud to partner with-
The Martin House Child Advocacy Center (Personal Safety and Internet Safety lessons)
Too Good for Drugs- Prevnet Program (4-5)
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