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K - 6 Guidance & Counseling

A child seldom needs a good talking to as a good listening to.

The Guidance and Counseling Program

The purpose of the Guidance and Counseling Program is to facilitate students’ optimal growth by helping them acquire knowledge and skills which promote academic development, personal/social development, and career development.

These are directed by the Missouri Comprehensive Guidance Program and accomplished through the following activities:  

• Classroom Guidance Lessons
Every Kindergarten through sixth grade class attends a guidance lesson for 30 minutes each week. Lessons are intended for all students and do not require students to reveal any personal information. Activities are designed to help students succeed in the school community and beyond. A state-devised curriculum and grade-level expectations are used in creating lessons.

• Individual Counseling
Counseling is developmental and designed to help students develop an understanding of themselves and others, define goals, and resolve conflicts. Students may self-refer, or a parent, teacher, or administrator may request I visit with a child to discuss a particular concern. Depending on the topic and situation, I may visit with a student once, or once per week for several months. Parent/guardian consent is required for counseling that extends beyond two sessions, or that is planned on a regular basis.

School counseling services are not intended as a substitute for diagnosis or treatment for any mental health disorder. Consenting parents/guardians acknowledge their responsibility in determining whether additional or different services are necessary.

• Small Group Counseling
With parent permission, students may be invited to join a small group focused on an issue experienced by a group of students. Possible group topics are Divorce, Grief, Friendship, Study Skills, Anger/Self-Control, and Academic Transition. Students often find it helpful to meet with others coping with similar situations to share ideas and support.