Counseling Program

Should I be alarmed if my child says, “I saw Mrs. Fletcher/Mrs. Oakes today”?

There is no need to worry. We spend a significant amount of time working with students in their classrooms. During guidance lessons we partner with teachers to make the school a great place for your child to learn. But remember, sometimes kids like to see the counselor for a variety of little things. If a student has a problem they need help solving, want to have lunch together, have a conflict with another student or want to share a special accomplishment they might ask to see one of us. We always encourage students to go home and share with parents when and why we met. If there is an ongoing issue or major concern, we always call or e-mail parents. 

Who refers students to the school counselor?

Parents often ask “Who refers a child to the school counselor?” Sometimes kids refer themselves by asking their teacher or filling out a counselor referral form. Sometimes parents call Mrs. Fletcher/Mrs. Oakes or teachers let us know of a concern & if a student needs to talk. 

Our mission of the counseling program at Shoal Creek Elementary School is to create a positive environment where students can identify their own unique leadership talents and make a positive difference in our school, our community and the world. We are committed to providing a comprehensive school counseling program where students can learn and grow socially, personally and academically.

Mrs. Fletcher and Mrs. Oakes use a variety of therapy interventions including play therapy. Research shows that play allows children a way to help them reconcile their thoughts, process their problems, and manage stress. While playing is a fun activity for children, it also can be a way to help them express their thoughts and feelings and develop coping skills.

"Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But, for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood." Fred Rogers

Privacy and confidentiality are essential to having an effective school counseling program.  Shoal Creek School recognizes the importance of good communication and close working relationships between students, parents, and the school.  While communicating ways that parents and teachers may help a student, every effort will be made to protect student and parent privacy rights except under certain limited conditions.  These conditions generally include safety issues (harm to self and/or others), legal issues, and professional responsibilities.  If you would like more information about counseling related ethics click here.

"The Liberty 53 School District's comprehensive guidance program provides important benefits to all students at all grade levels by addressing their personal/social, academic and career development needs."

LPS Policies