8th Grade

The following lessons are provided to all 8th Grade students as part of the core counseling curriculum:

• Introduction to the Counselor

Students participate in an introductory lesson in the beginning of the year during the PBIS rotation to get to know their counselor and how to contact them if they have anything they would like to address. Students also receive an overview of what to expect during their last year at Ligon.

• Coping Skills/Stress Management

Middle School can be stressful!  Students will discuss ways to manage stress and create a plan of coping skills that can help them self-regulate.

• High School Preparation

In preparation for the high school registration process, students will gain a deeper understanding of the programs available at the early college high schools, magnet high schools, and academies in traditional high schools. Students will also learn about high school graduation requirements and the minimum admission requirements for UNC-System schools.

• Human Trafficking

North Carolina law mandates that all students in grades 7-9 receive instruction concerning trafficking prevention and awareness. All WCPSS students in grades 7-9 will participate in a lesson on Human Trafficking presented by their counselor.  

• What is Social Emotional Learning (SEL)? SEL Video 

Social emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which children and adults acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. 

• Why SEL?

Social - We live, work, and play surrounded by other people. It's important to learn how to get along with others, especially with people who have different viewpoints than our own.

Emotional - Learning to be aware of, control, and express our emotions effectively is a skill that helps us in every aspect of our lives. Learning about ourselves and our emotions help us develop strong healthy relationships with our families, friends, and teachers.

Learning - Through modeling and coaching we learn to recognize how to take better care of ourselves and interact successfully with others.

The purpose of small group counseling is to complement and enhance student learning by improving their perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors. Small group counseling provides a safe setting where children, along with their peers, can increase their self awareness and improve their cooperation and communication skills. During the first month of school students will take a Student Services Department needs assessment to express the areas in which they want/need support. 

I also have created and lead a holistic counseling small group, Lady Little Blues.