Embedded Files
The school guidance counselor is Shiela de Leon. Please read the below information shared in her "Nuts & Bolts".
Guidance:
I will see classes for guidance lessons each month. I will send an email with a link to a signup genius. Once you receive it, please complete the schedule request on the signup genius by the due date. You will receive an email/appointment monthly for each guidance lesson.
Counseling Referrals:
Students, teachers, and parents can refer a student to meet with me. Referral can be made through email, phoone calls or through this form.
District policy limits the number of times I can meet with a student to three (3) times per concern; then I must refer them to an outside provider.
Sensory Tubs/Calm Down Kits:
Providing a safe, quiet spaces for students to decompress is crucial in helping them to self regulate. We have created 1 (one) calm down kit per classroom. These kits contain a number of sensory items that could help students regulate their emotions. The contents, purpose, and appropriate use of these kits should be discussed with your students. These kits will be returned as part of your end of the year check-out procedures.
Character Education:
Refer to handout for Character Trait and Kindness Component Focus for each month. Help students learn to self-regulate (slow deep breaths) as needs arise.
Character Strong:
Teachers should use the Character Strong curriculum to support character traits. Log in: username: mcgowenelem password:character2021
Bullying:
Please be aware of situations that may be occurring. If bullying is reported, take it seriously and address it immediately within your classroom/grade level. Often the reported situation is a conflict and with teacher guidance, the students can resolve the situation. If a parent reports bullying, be sure to notify administration, as they will need to complete the steps necessary for a bullying investigation.
CPS:
If you suspect abuse/neglect you should report it. You are not required to “investigate” or “prove” it. You do not need permission to make a report to CPS. If a student shares a situation with you, you are the “outcry witness” and are obligated to report it within 24 hours.
Two ways to report abuse: Phone 1-800-252-5400 or
Internet www.txabusehotline.org
McGowen Elementary
Guidance Topics for 2025-2026
#misdliveskind
August - Kindness
September - RESPECT/SELF-REGULATION – Respect others (differences, space, beliefs, ideas, property); Stand up for what you believe is right (stand up for others); Show pride in your school and appreciate/accept other’s pride in their schools
Sept. - ---- COLLEGE WEEK! ---- Details to come
October RESPONSIBILITY/MINDFUL BREATHING (Collaboration) – You’re in charge of yourself and your choices; Demonstrate self-control; Admit when you make a mistake
Oct. - ----- RED RIBBON WEEK! ---- Details to come
November – GRATITUDE/CITIZENSHIP (Active Listening) – Be a good neighbor; Help/serve others; Follow rules in your community; Work as a team; Plan for your future and how you will help others; Concern for the common good and the community; Respect authority
Nov. - --- VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION --- Details to come
December - EMPATHY/CARING/SELF-REGULATION – (Speaking with Positive Intentions) – Caring about the feelings/needs of others; Listen/think before you speak; Respecting classmates and others; Serving others; Show empathy and patience for others
January - PERSEVERANCE/FAIRNESS - (social fairness/justice) (Empathy) – Respecting differences and following the rules; Utilizing the strengths of individuals in your group
February – HONESTY/TRUSTWORTHINESS (Self-Regulation & Coping) – Do the right thing, even when no one is watching, being honest with your words and actions
March – COOPERATION/INTEGRITY/SELF-REGULATION (Stress/Anxiety) – Staying true to who you are; Staying honest and truthful with your actions; Develop a strong moral compass
April – COURAGE/CARING (for yourself)/Personal Safety – Making choices that are good for you and your safety; Allowing yourself to be you; Knowing how to keep yourself safe around people you don’t know
April/May (TBD) - --- CAREER DAY --- TBD
May – CREATIVITY – Showing appreciation to others
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