Counseling Information

Every month I visit each K-4 classroom for a social-emotional learning (SEL) lesson. These lessons are developed around topics that help students develop  knowledge, self-awareness, and personal well-being to build the emotional competencies that help them thrive in both academics and life. Topics are chosen based on specific and appropriate needs tailored to each grade level and include things like conflict resolution, communication and cooperation skills, impulse control, emotion regulation, social initiation, etc.

The elementary school has a monthly character trait program, Warriors: Rise Up!

During daily morning meetings throughout the month, teachers reinforce the importance of that month's character trait. Teachers encourage open discussion and students’ input on what each particular character trait means to them. 

I will be posting each month's character trait in my monthly newsletter. Each week of the month has a different, specific focus. Even a brief mention and occasional reminder could go a long way! Click the calendar below for my newsletter. 

"Dear Bruce" is a program for all K-4 students. Bruce the Moose, our elementary counseling department's puppet, writes letters to West Valley students asking for advice. Students then have the opportunity to write back to him with solutions to his problems.

Every month, Bruce gives each grade level a new problem. A copy of his letter is sent home with students so families can help students who might need a little assistance but still want to help their buddy, Bruce. 

A few students per grade who write to Bruce receive a prize as motivation to continue to practice their conflict resolution and problem solving skills. Click the moose tracks below for "Dear Bruce" information and rules.