American School Counselor Association
We base our school counseling program on the American School Counselor Association (ASCA). ASCA guides school counselors in the development of school counseling programs that:
are delivered to all students
are based on data-informed decision-making
close achievement and opportunity gaps
result in improved student achievement, attendance, and behavior
Below are two links to PDFs from ASCA that go into more detail about the role and importance of an elementary school counselor.
https://www.schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/ee8b2e1b-d021-4575-982c-c84402cb2cd2/Role-Statement.pdf
https://www.schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/1691fcb1-2dbf-49fc-9629-278610aedeaa/Why-Elem.pdf
We provide individual, short-term counseling for issues impacting our students here at school. Students can be referred by their teachers or parents/guardians. Individual counseling topics can be coping skills, self-control, problems with peers, etc. We always maintain confidentiality with our students unless they tell us someone is hurting them, they want to hurt themselves, or they want to hurt someone else.
Group Counseling
Small group counseling can be provided to students sharing the same concern. Small group topics may be related to academics or social emotional.
Classroom Lesson
We go to classrooms every week to teach Social Emotional Learning (SEL) lessons. Senatobia Elementary uses the SEL curriculum, Too Good for Violence - A Peaceable Place. Students are taught lessons on topics such as goal setting, effective communication, conflict resolution, and identifying emotions.
What is Social Emotional Learning?
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is all about teaching kids essential life skills beyond academics, like understanding emotions, building positive relationships, and making responsible decisions. SEL boosts academic performance, reduces stress and anxiety, and teaches important life skills. SEL skills help individuals become confident, compassionate, and empathetic individuals equipped with emotional understanding and strong coping skills. SEL helps kids succeed in school and life!