MCSD SCHOOL COUNSELING DEPARTMENT NEWSLETTER

MMS Fall

Fall Highlights

A Warm Welcome to Our Newest PAC!

Supporting Every Step As We Begin the Journey Together

6th Grade Transition Day

Our MMS School Counselors were thrilled to kick off the school year with our 6th Grade Transition Day, an event dedicated to helping 6th grade students settle into middle school life. It was a fantastic opportunity to welcome and meet students, answer questions, and provide support as they explored their new building. From navigating hallways to learning classroom locations, our school counselors were on hand to ensure everyone felt confident and ready to tackle the exciting year ahead. We’re so proud of our 6th graders for embracing this new adventure and look forward to supporting them throughout the year!

Building Connections, Supporting Success Together!

Meet the Teams Night Recap

"Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." – Henry Ford

It was wonderful to see so many parents at our Middle School Meet the Teams Nights! Thank you to everyone who stopped by the Counseling Department table. It was a pleasure meeting each of you, and we're excited for a fantastic school year together!

Supporting a Smooth Transition for 6th Graders!

Visiting 6th Grade MMS Success Classes

The start of middle school is a big step, and we're here to make sure every student feels supported and ready to succeed. Kicking off the start of the school year, school counselors visited 6th Grade MMS Success classes to check in with students and offer support as they adjust to their new school. In these sessions, students and counselors engaged in interactive discussions on topics such as the role of school counselors, ways they provide academic, social, and emotional support, and how to navigate the new building. Students also received tips on locker combinations, building layout, and learning about the various academic supports available both during and after school. Our school counselors emphasized the importance of getting involved in MMS’s many clubs and activities, helping students explore ways to feel connected and engaged.

Each student completed a “Getting to Know You” questionnaire, allowing counselors to understand each student’s unique needs and interests. This initial check-in helps set the stage for future one-on-one meetings with counselors, building strong relationships that support a positive middle school experience.

A Sweet Start - Sundaes with Friends!

New Student Welcome Event

School Counselors welcomed and celebrated MMS students new to our wonderful Mahopac School Community by hosting "Sundaes with Friends!" The event invited students new to the district to build their own ice cream sundaes while connecting with school counselors and fellow new students. With an array of toppings and flavors, students had fun crafting their perfect sundaes, creating a relaxed environment for conversation and connection. School counselors were on hand to answer questions, offer support, and introduce students to the resources and opportunities available to them. This special gathering was a great way for students to meet new friends, learn about the school community, and enjoy a delicious treat together!

It was a sweet success!

Brewing Success in Coffee with Counselors

Guiding Your Middle Schooler: Insights from Coffee with Counselors

Navigating the middle school years can feel like a journey without a map—but with the right support, families can help their kids thrive. With this in mind, our October 10th "Coffee with Counselors" event brought together parents/guardians, our school counseling team, administration and featured special guest speaker MS School Social Worker, Kellie Rivera for a session focused on "How to Best Support Your Middle Schooler." Attendees gained valuable strategies to foster their child's academic, social and emotional growth, with a focus on navigating common middle school challenges. From tips on promoting healthy study habits to ways to encourage resilience and self-confidence, the talk offered practical advice for helping students thrive both in and out of school. It was a wonderful opportunity for our school community to come together, ask questions, and share ideas.

If you were unable to attend, please find attached a copy of Kellie Rivera’s presentation “How to Best Support Your Middle Schooler.” We greatly appreciate Kellie’s insights and expertise!

Thank you to everyone who joined us—we look forward to more opportunities to connect!