I am the School Counselor at Heights Elementary for the Oakland School District. The school counseling program is a comprehensive and integrated joint school-community program for prevention, intervention, support, and referral services. My mission is to facilitate the academic, career, and personal/social development of all students. As an integral members of the instructional team, I strive to impact student achievement by delivering comprehensive services that meet the needs of the home and school community.
What does this mean for students?
- This means that I pay close attention to every student in the building and how he/she 'connects' to his/her education and therefore achieves to the maximum level possible. I support your child and all school stakeholders to creatively problem-solve any issues that may (temporarily or otherwise) pose an obstacle to the learning process and your child's academic achievement.
How does your child experience counseling services?
- Individual Counseling - I may work with a student in a safe, positive, and confidential setting to address issues that 'get in the way' of school achievement. Topics are based on the needs of the student and may include: understanding feelings, changing families, divorce, grief, stress, social skills, academics, bullying, problem-solving, and decision-making.
- Small Group Counseling - A process where students sharing similar issues or concerns work together in a small group environment consisting of about 3-7 peers. The group sessions usually last about 25 to 30 minutes and are held for approximately 6-8 weeks. Topics are based on the needs of the students and may include divorce or changing families, grief and loss, friendship and social skills, study skills, conflict resolution, anger management, self-esteem, and stress-management.
- Classroom Lessons - I develop and implement classroom curriculum. I often co-plan and co-teach lessons with other professionals in the building to support social and emotional growth across curricular areas. Classroom lessons are regularly scheduled and address personal, social, academic, and career-related needs at the child's developmental level. Topics may include self-esteem, conflict resolution, study skills, anger management, career awareness, conflict vs. bullying, friendship and social skills, character education, feelings, cooperation, goal setting and decision-making, and peer pressure.
"Positive thinking and always trying your best brings success as well as a great sense of accomplishment."
Resources and Wants to Spark Student Growth