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Welcome to the Atkinson School counseling web page. I have been the counselor at Atkinson since 1993. What in the world does a counselor at an elementary school do?
Although my job is varied and broad, my main role is to offer individual and small group counseling to students. Students are referred for counseling by teachers and parents. Third, fourth, and fifth graders may refer themselves. Issues addressed in counseling depend on the needs of the student, and may include academic performance, peer relationships, family relationships, behavior, self-esteem, and emotional issues such as grief, anxiety, anger, and stress.
I also teach classroom guidance lessons to all classes throughout the year, providing an opportunity for all students to become familiar with me, and I with them. Through these lessons as well as in my counseling work, I strive to promote the academic, social-emotional, and career development of students.
Consultation with parents and teachers is another important aspect of my job. This sometimes includes linking students and families with various community resources that may serve their needs.
As counselor, I also coordinate several school-wide activities. These include our character education program, honor roll assemblies, Terrific Teamwork Awards, and our bi-annual Family Night. In addition, I serve as coordinator for the school's "3-Tier" student intervention process for struggling students as well as for "504" services for disabled students. I also sponsor the Cougar Hiking Club for 4th and 5th graders.
In my office is a small library of books, pamphlets, and videos of interest to parents. Topics include child development, parenting, and various social, emotional and educational issues related to children. Parents may browse and borrow any of these materials at any time.
Feel free to contact me at school if you have questions or if I can serve you in any way.
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