As the school counselor, our role includes promoting and supporting the academic, social and emotional growth of all students. We follow the Missouri Model Guidance Program which consists of four specific areas. These areas include School Counseling Curriculum, Responsive Services, System Support and Individual Planning. *see below for a description of each
School Counseling Curriculum: This year, all classes (K-4) will receive 10 base lessons (one per calendar month). However, if a teacher requests additional lessons (based on class need), We are always happy to do so. Lessons cover a variety of topics including the role of the counselor, understanding and expressing feelings, making safe and responsible choices, self-esteem, goal setting, careers, growth mindset, and conflict resolution.
To view a calendar of counseling lesson topics for the 2023-2024 school year , click here.
In addition to the counseling lessons we will deliver, we are also fortunate to have several outside organizations provide in person lessons to our students each year. In the fall, students will receive a lesson about safe touch from Jewish and Family Services as part of our child abuse prevention program. In the spring, students will receive 4 lessons from Prevent Ed (formerly NCADA) centered around friendships, relationships, and self esteem.
Responsive Services: Short term individual counseling services are provided for students surrounding issues that may negatively impact their personal, social, emotional, or academic success. Students may be referred to see me by a parent/guardian, a teacher or staff member, a principal, or through self-referral. It is important to note that a school counselor's role is different than the role of a therapeutic counselor. If concerns continue long term or it seems that a student is in need of more intensive services, parents will be provided with referrals for specialists and/or outside counseling services.
Small groups are also offered periodically to students who may benefit from spending additional time developing academic, social, or emotional skills alongside their peers. Examples of small group curriculum offerings include Worry/Anxiety, Self Esteem, Social Skills/Friendship, Divorce/Separation, Anger Management/Self Control, School Success, and Grief/Loss.
We pride ourselves on being a resource for parents and caregivers and would be happy to assist you with any questions or concerns. Please feel free to reach out to us at any time. We can also help connect families to appropriate resources as needed.
Individual Planning: The individual planning component of a school counselors job is to help support students during transitions (New to Ladue Students or from grade to grade). It also pertains to encouraging the exploration of students interests, abilities, and skills as well as information about goal setting and career development.
System Support: System support includes attending professional development, program planning as well as fair share responsibilities at Conway Elementary. It also includes being the case manager of 504 plans and ongoing collaboration with teachers and staff members.
For more information about a school counselor's role, please visit the sites below:
American School Counselors Association (ASCA): The Role of the School Counselor
American School Counselors Association (ASCA): Impact of School Counseling
Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education (DESE): School Counseling