Your school counselor
Who is your school counselor?
Ms. Ingram
Students normally see a school counselor when they have a ___________________ .
problem or conflict
How often can I see Ms. Ingram for help?
However often you need it..... but students are not permitted to see the counselor as an excuse to get out of class. Generally, we work together to problem solve and come up with solutions to help you and don't meet indefinitely throughout the year.
School counselors teach students social skills to help them make good ________________ .
choices
What is confidentiality?
Keeping conversations between people private. Not telling others what was said.
How long has Ms. Ingram been a school counselor at Brownsville Elementary School?
This is my 20th year.
Are you ever in trouble when you go to see the school counselor?
Never!
How often will the School Counselor come to my class to teach guidance lessons?
Once a week.
Name 2 things school counselors do to help students.
Talk to students individually, small groups, talk with teachers, talk with parents or other staff
Besides teaching guidance lessons, what else does the school counselor do?
Help students one on one or in small groups. Lunch bunches as time permits. Meet with teachers, administrators, and parents. Supervise arrival and dismissal of students. Observe students at recess and lunch. Lots of other things behind the scenes!
True or False: Ms. Ingram is the only school counselor at Brownsville.
False
Name 2 problems a student might have that the counselor can help with.
Problems at home, with friends, schoolwork, behavior, anxious feelings, and so many more
How should a student behave when they visit a school counselor?
Students should be respectful, responsible, safe, and kind. Most of all be real! Be honest with the counselor and yourself.
Are school counselors in charge of discipline?
No
Where is Ms. Ingram's office located?
In the main hallway, turn left into the first hallway after you pass the display case. Once in that hall, it's the first door on the right.
True or False: Mrs. Ingram was a teacher before becoming a school counselor.
False - Before becoming a school counselor, Ms. Ingram worked as a counselor in an office outside of the school system.
How can you see the school counselor?
Ask your teacher for help, see me in the hallways or after class, write me a note, email me, have your parents email me.
True or false - It is ok to be mad about a problem at school.
True! Any feeling is ok, what matters is how we handle our feelings.
Does Ms. Ingram ever work with other school counselors or teachers?
Yes! I regularly collaborate with other school counselors and teachers in our building to help students thrive.
True or False: Ms. Ingram works with students in small group, classroom and individual settings.
True
Does Ms. Ingram have any pets?
One cat named Catalina.
Will I get to see the counselor right away?
Sometimes, but not all the time. Ms. Ingram will make time to meet with you no matter what the problem is, but it might take a day or two because she might be teaching classes or meeting with other students.
How long are guidance lessons?
30 minutes.
How many students does Ms. Ingram have with her at once in her office?
It depends on the situation. Sometimes there will be just 1 student, sometimes 2, 3, or 4. Usually not any more than 4.
True or False? There are limits to what the school counselor can keep confidential.
True. The school counselor keeps your conversation confidential unless you share with her that you or someone you know is in danger. School counselors are mandated reporters, which means they are required by law to help students in danger.