What is the role of an Elementary School Counselor?

Today's school counselors are vital members of the education team. They help all students in the areas of academic achievement, personal/social development and career development, ensuring today's students become productive, contributing, and well-adjusted adults.

The elementary years are a time when students begin to develop their academic self-concept and their feelings of competence and confidence as learners. They are beginning to develop decision-making, communication and life skills, as well as character values. It is also a time when students develop and acquire attitudes toward school, self, peers, social groups and family. Comprehensive developmental school counseling programs provide education, prevention and intervention services, which are integrated into all aspects of children’s lives. Early identification and intervention of children’s academic and personal/social needs is essential in removing barriers to learning and in promoting academic achievement. The knowledge, attitudes and skills that students acquire in the areas of academic, career and personal/social development during these elementary years serve as the foundation for future success.

A school counselor works with children, teachers, and parents in a variety of capacities. The main role of a school counselor is to facilitate the social, emotional, and academic growth of their students. A school counselor is trained specifically to promote the academic, social and career development of their students so they achieve success in school and become responsible members of society.

The following is an abbreviated list of topics for which a student or parent may need to visit a school counselor:

• Academic support
• (Organizational, study, and test-taking skills)
• Goal setting and decision-making
• Career awareness and exploration
• Education on understanding self and others
• Peer relationship, coping strategies, and effective social skills
• Communication, problem-solving and conflict resolution
• Substance abuse education
• Multicultural/diversity awareness
• Friendship Difficulties
• Bullying
• Managing stress and worries
• Divorce or separation
• Life Transitions
• Death of a pet, friend, or family member
• Anger Management
• Sadness

School Counselors provide services through a variety of ways:

Classroom guidance lessons are scheduled on an as-needed basis and range in a number of topics

Students often need the opportunity to visit with their school counselor on an individual basis. Students may refer themselves. Parents and teachers also refer students to the counseling office as the need arises.

Students may have the opportunity to participate in small group counseling activities. Small groups typically consist of 6-8 students sharing similar needs. Groups may be formed as the need arises, by teacher recommendation, or when a particular concern warrants addressing. Typical groups include friendship development/peer relationships, anger management, changing families, and/or academic success. If you are interested in small group counseling at Fred W. Hill, please email or call Mrs. Bertram.

Mrs. Bertram works closely with all teachers and staff to ensure the personal/social, emotional and academic success of the students at Fred W. Hill.

Mrs. Bertram participates in numerous teams with a mission to meet students needs. For specific concerns about about your child's learning needs, please talk with child's teacher.

Elementary School Counselors advocate on behalf of all students and work with staff to ensure the best possible learning environment for every student.Communication with parents is an integral part of this process as well.As parents, you know your children better than anyone else, and your support and input help to make our school as rewarding as possible for our students.