to the School Counseling Program at Northside Middle School !

The school counseling program serves all the children at our school and helps students, teachers, and parents be their best.

What does the school counselor do?

· Teaches lessons in all classrooms several times throughout the year

· Meets with students who want to get help solving a problem or chat about something on their minds

· Facilitates small groups for students on topics like grief and anger management

· Consults with parents and teachers on topics like parenting, discipline, building strong families, and students’ academic, emotional, and social success in school

· Helps families connect with community resources

· Coordinates our school’s character education program

· Organizes school-wide service learning projects

· Serves on our school’s Problem-Solving Team (PST)

· Works with teachers, administrators, and parents to develop and implement  the school counseling program

What topics are taught in classroom lessons?

· Emotions and coping skills

· Conflict resolution

· Friendship/social skills

· Career exploration

· Respecting individual differences

· Character (responsibility, perseverance, trustworthiness, etc.)

· Personal safety

· Cooperation and teamwork

· Academic readiness and skills for learning

· And many more! Ask me if you’d like a complete list of standards or download the “Guidance Curriculum Scope & Sequence” on the  Alabama State Department of   Education website.

WhWhat do we do in small group and individual meetings?

· Talk about little things, big things, or anything in between

· Offer support and encouragement

· Build confidence

· Develop problem-solving abilities

· Teach coping, social, or other needed skills

· Giv Give children the opportunity to connect with other students having similar experiences

WhWhen should I contact the school counselor?

                 Please don’t hesitate to call or email if I can help your child or your family with anything, especially if you have questions or  concerns about the following:

· Your child’s emotional well-being

· Stress or changes at home

· Your child’s relations with peers

· Your child’s behavior/accountability

· Books or ideas on parenting or building a strong family

· Getting help from resources in the community