There is a School Counselor at your school…

There is a School Counselor at your school….

Ms. Kandi M. Ashby

(301) 689-3636

What does an elementary school counselor do?

-        Assists students with personal, social, and academic concerns

-        Provides individual counseling, group counseling, and classroom guidance lessons

-        Assists parents and teachers in supporting children

-        Coordinates school-wide programs that improve climate of school

-        Consults with administration and various agencies

What the elementary school counselor is not….

- A Disciplinarian - A Psychologist

- An Administrator - A Social Worker

A Child may see a school counselor for Help with…

- Being a New Student - Social Issues

- Study Skills/Organization - Self-Esteem

- Coping with Divorce/Death - Problem Solving

- Stress/Anxiety - Any other concerns

(Classroom guidance lessons are performed monthly in each classroom and focus on the above mentioned topics, as well as the Six Pillars of Character- Responsibility, Trustworthiness, Respect, Fairness, Citizenship, and Caring.)

How does my child access the school counselor?

Ms. Ashby’s office is located within the main lobby. If a child needs to see the counselor, he/she may ask their teacher if they may see me at the time, or at another appropriate time. A child will be given a slip in order to come and see me. As much as possible, students will not be pulled during math and reading instructional time for counseling. Teacher and parent referrals are also accepted at any time. A parent permission form must be completed in order for ongoing counseling to be provided. In the event that a referral to an outside agency is favorable, the parent will be contacted.

Counselor Goals

1.) To ensure the physical safety and emotional well-being of every student.

2.) To make the educational environment comfortable and encouraging of success.

3.) To work with parents, teachers, and administrators in a manner that centers on the total needs of each student.

*Please feel free to contact me at any time with any concerns or questions. I am looking forward to helping your child be successful! Please be sure to look for “The Counselor Connection” included within the monthly newsletter, Beall-A-Bration, for helpful parent tips! Have a wonderful school year!