Why do students ask to see me?
They have an issue or conflict or need someone to talk to/listen to them.
What are some things I do?
Talk with students individually, classroom lessons, small groups, talk with teachers, talk with parents or other staff.
Where is my office located?
My office is on the corner of the 5th/6th grade hallway.
True or False: We can't do band or choir until 6th grade.
False! You can join either or both next year!
How many children do you think I have?
1! I have one son whose name is Ian. He is a freshman at Dubuque Senior High School and likes to play baseball.
Are you ever in trouble when you come to see me?
NO!
If you are in trouble, you will be talking to Mr. Soat/Mrs. Muehleip.
Do you have to be going through a major crisis or have a big problem to see me?
No. Counselors support ALL students whether they need a lot or a little help.
How is a student able to come to my office?
1. Send me an email.
2. Ask your teacher if you can come see me.
3. Sometimes teachers/parents/guardians may request that we meet together.
True or False: Pirate Parties end in 4th grade.
False! The fifth graders walked to Cemetery Park, had a movie day with popcorn, gone sledding, did a rock /paper/scissors tournament, had rootbeer floats, went mini golfing.
I like to travel. How many states do you think I have visited?
35
What are things I can help you with?
Feelings, family, classes, friends, hygiene needs . . . just to name a few!
Will you have Guidance with me next year?
Yes! You will see me once a month in your Specials class. I also send out a weekly social emotional video lesson that you will do in your homeroom.
What are the two most important things that happen in my office?
1. Communication
2. Problem Solving
True or False: 5th graders NEVER go on field trips.
False! Some trips have included a cruise on the American Lady, a concert by the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra, and bowling and pizza for fifth graders' 1000th day of school.
I like to travel. How many countries do you think I have visited?
10
Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, England, France, Spain, Morocco, Mexico, Canada, Australia
Do I keep what you say in my office private?
Yes! Unless
*Someone is hurting you.
*You want to hurt someone.
*You want to hurt yourself.
*You give me permission to share with a trusted adult.
I help students follow expectations in order to be their best selves. What are the middle school expectations?
They are the same ones that you have this year:
Pirates are always safe, respectful, responsible, and ready to learn!
Are students able to talk to me immediately when they need to?
Sometimes, but not all the time. I will make time to meet with you, but it might take a little bit. I will get to as soon as possible.
True or False: I can earn Pirate Bucks for following expectations.
True! Those Pirate Bucks can be spent at the end of the semester or at the end of the year auction.
Pirate Bucks do not carry over to the next grade.
A. Read
B. Run
C. Hike
D. Yoga
E. Play board games
When I keep things that you tell me private, what is that called?
Confidentiality
Why do I always say "hi" to students in the hallway and/or ask them how they are doing?
Because you matter!
True or False: If my door is closed, simply keep knocking on it until I finally answer.
False! Please use your manners! If my door is closed that means I'm with someone or on the phone. Please come back later when my door is open, send me an email, or go to the office/tell your teacher if it is an emergency.
True or False: PE and Specials are different from 4th grade.
True. You will have PE every day (you don't have change into a uniform until 6th grade) and you will have 3 Specials next year for 1 trimester (12 weeks) at a time. The Specials are Art, Technology, and Music.
I have a pet...what do you think I have?
I have a dog, whose name is Seamus. He is 8 years old and likes to go for walks around the neighborhood and snuggle:)