SECTION III: FOUNDATIONAL COMPONENTS

DEFINITION, RATIONAL AND ASSUMPTIONS

Definition

The Jessup Elementary Counseling Program advances the social-emotional, behavioral, and academic success of all students while promoting college and career readiness. Students are supported through individual and group counseling, guidance lessons, behavior intervention groups, wellness lessons, and referrals. Programs such as Operation Warm and the Self-Care Closet, along with partnerships with local organizations, ensure support for the whole child and their families.

Rationale

The Jessup Elementary Counseling Program fosters social-emotional growth, academic development, and overall well-being. It addresses competencies such as health and safety, interpersonal skills, and college and career readiness. Services are guided by student, staff, and parent needs assessments and delivered through counseling, guidance lessons, wellness initiatives, and collaboration with staff, families, and community partners, ensuring support for Jessup’s diverse student population.

Assumptions

The counseling program succeeds with support from students, staff, administration, and community partners through:

• Data-Driven Decisions: Using needs assessments and campus data (attendance, behavior, achievement) to guide interventions.

• Campus Collaboration: A support team including the parent coordinator, Project CLASS leader, CIS staff, WAVE Clinic therapist, social worker, and interns works closely with the counselor.

• Training & Resources: District training and campus resources ensure program quality and curriculum delivery.

• Organized Communication: Calendars and planning tools allow coordinated scheduling of initiatives.

• Community Partnerships: Collaboration with Hobby Area Rotary Club, Deer Park Rotary Club, WAVE Clinic, Operation Warm, and American Legion supports student well-being.

• Counselor Role Integrity: The counselor’s leadership is recognized, ensuring effective implementation of the comprehensive program.

DEVELOPING PROGRAM GOALS

Jessup's counseling program goals are designed to ensure that every student gains the maximum benefit from the program. SMART goals are developed using the campus improvement plan, needs assessments, academic data, school-wide BoQ, and other information related to student needs. These goals support students’ social, emotional, and academic growth, encourage them to take risks, and are intended to foster success as life-long learners. 

EVALUATING OUR PROGRAM

The counseling program is evaluated regularly to determine its effectiveness in supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional growth. Evaluation methods include analyzing academic data, monitoring behavioral trends, reviewing student and teacher feedback, and assessing progress toward SMART goals. This process ensures that the program remains responsive to student needs and continues to promote positive outcomes.