My child said they visited with Mrs. Kendall today. Why??

As the school counselor, there are many reasons why I may visit with your child on any given day. There is no need for immediate concern if your child reports that they met with me.  I provide monthly guidance lessons in each classroom on topics such as conflict resolution, anti bullying, diversity/acceptance, body safety, etc.  It is not uncommon for these lessons to spark interest for children, and they may ask to follow up with me after a lesson.

I always encourage students to share with their parents what we have talked about and why we met. If I feel the issue is of heightened concern I will always contact parents.  Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

 Here are some reasons a student might talk with the school counselor:

"I'm getting picked on at the bus stop, and I don't know what to do."

"My best friend isn't talking to me and it's making me really sad."

"I want to show you what I just made in art. I'm very proud of it."

"I'm new to this school, and I'm really nervous!"

"When am I going be in a group or have lunch with you?

"I did some great work, and I'm so excited to tell someone!"

Here are some reasons a parent might refer to the counselor:

"Sarah doesn't want to go to school in the mornings."

"I'm concerned because Alec keeps telling me that he doesn't have any friends."

"We recently had a death in the family, and I'm not sure how to tell my child."

"My spouse is going to be deploying soon, can you check in with the kids?"

"We’re going through a divorce and think our kids need someone to talk to about it.”

"Jamar seems to get really frustrated doing his homework and nothing seems to help."

Here are some reasons a teacher or principal might refer to the school counselor:

"I need some ideas to help Lola develop relationships with peers in our classroom."

"Amos has difficulty focusing on lessons in the classroom."

"Ethan is absent a lot."

"Patrick is new to this school and needs some special attention."

"I've noticed that Amanda seems anxious lately."

"Lindsey is very shy and doesn't seem comfortable asking others to play. Are you able to star a Friendship Group?"