Dear Parents/Guardians:
Welcome to Washington School! My name is Bonnie Loew and I’m the Transition Counselor at Washington School.
Upper elementary school is a time when students beliefs concerning school, self, peers, social groups, and family begin to solidify. During this time, they also refine their decision-making, communication skills, and build upon the character values they may have been exposed to in younger years. This 5th grade year in particular, is also a year of transition for students as they move from an elementary school model towards a middle school one.
A variety of approaches are used to meet your child at their current developmental level, and to help them continue to build the skills they need to be successful this year, next year in middle school, and in our fast-paced and ever-changing world:
Leader in Me Classroom Lessons: Push-in with teachers on an as needed basis to provide an additional layer of personal/social/emotional support.
Small Group Counseling*: Students may attend counseling with groups of students who have common interests or concerns.
Mediation Services*: Conflict resolution conducted between students who may otherwise not be able to rectify an issue on their own.
Individual Counseling*: School-based counseling is available as needed to provide students with an opportunity to discuss any issues that may be preventing them from focusing in the school environment. School-based counseling is short term and solution focused. When there is a need for ongoing counseling support, information regarding available community resources (mental health agencies or private practitioners) can be shared. With permission, school counselors are also available to liaise with a student’s private therapy team to provide a comprehensive counseling approach.
Transition Services: Customize programs to effectively transition our students into and out of Washington school.
* A student may be referred for small group counseling, individual counseling or mediation services, through a variety of sources: self-referral, parent/guardian, teacher or staff, administrative.
I am optimistic about collaborating with you to support your child’s social emotional growth during this important year. Please do not hesitate to contact me at (973) 218-7500 or by email, bonnie.loew@millburn.org, if I can be of any assistance to you.
Looking forward to the best school year yet!
Most Sincerely,
Bonnie Loew
973-218-7500