The Elementary School guidance program consists of many parts. I will give you an overview of my role.
1.) Classroom guidance takes place at every level. I feel that this way all children receive basic lessons in social skills, decision making, career planning, tobacco use prevention, assertiveness, and coping skills.
2.) Individual counseling- is provided to students who are referred by parents teachers or by the students themselves. If students are going to be receiving regular counseling the parents are informed.
3.) Group counseling.- Our most regular counseling group is Banana Splits. This group is for students involved in family change. We also have done groups for school motivation, and for building friendship skills.
4.) Teacher and parent consultation. I as the school counselor often get involved in making plans with parents and teachers to help students succeed.
Mary LoTemplio
Guidance Counselor - Saranac Elementary School