I LOVE Linky Parties! This time I am linking up with School Counselor Space to discuss the upcoming school year.
Do you want to participate? Click on the logo above.
I present at New Teacher Inservice Thursday, August 1st (which is also my 4th wedding anniversary). I love presenting to the new teachers because it gives me a chance to introduce my program. It also gives me an opportunity to get to know them. Our Teacher Inservice starts the following Monday, August 5th. I also present to our Lower School faculty. Then school starts Monday, August 12th. I cannot believe to is so soon!
My main focus for this year is on my small groups. I want to really organize and maintain effective groups for my students.
1. iPad - I love my technology!
2. Thumb Balls - I use these with all my groups, and sometimes I use them as an Ice Breaker for classroom lessons.
3. Calming Tools - This includes tangles, calming bottles, stress balls, etc.
2. Thumb Balls - I use these with all my groups, and sometimes I use them as an Ice Breaker for classroom lessons.
3. Calming Tools - This includes tangles, calming bottles, stress balls, etc.
My first classroom lesson introduces my program. I use this time to explain who I am and what I do. I also tell them about my referral process. Of course, I do this in a fun and engaging way, normally with a game or activity.
I send monthly newsletters to all of my parents. I have a school counseling blog and Twitter account that gives my parents more information. As needed, I communicate with emails and phone calls.
1. Set up a schedule that works for the teachers and YOU. Then post and communicate your schedule to all faculty. Also, explain that the schedule is flexible due to the possibility of a crisis situation. This past year, I only had to reschedule two classroom lessons, but both teachers were very understanding because I had explained the flexibility of my schedule and because I had stuck to my schedule for all the other lessons.
2. Spend time in the classrooms teaching preventative lessons. It is a great way to reach all students. However, do not over-schedule time in the classes to where you are not running a well-rounded program. Advocate for the best use of your time.
3. Check out counseling blogs!!! There are tons of great lesson ideas that you can "steal". Collaborate with other counselors!
2. Spend time in the classrooms teaching preventative lessons. It is a great way to reach all students. However, do not over-schedule time in the classes to where you are not running a well-rounded program. Advocate for the best use of your time.
3. Check out counseling blogs!!! There are tons of great lesson ideas that you can "steal". Collaborate with other counselors!
I am a VERY organized person! The only thing that was hard for me last year was that I am a traveling school counselor that works at three different elementary locations. This summer I focused on really organizing myself. I created a blog post explaining what I did. Check it out!