My getting to know the counselor/successful students presentation is ready to roll. I have a counseling google slideshow to email to the staff when I get in the office. I have a counseling brochure to include in the pack of materials that go home to parents ready to print. I am going to review my needs assessment for staff members with my principal next week. That means I have to work on my student surveys.
One of my best attributes is connecting with my students. With that in mind, my goal is to work through my 6th, 7th and 8th graders and personally meet with them to work on a plan of action to set them up for success. This will take some time, but I feel that it is necessary to meet individually to connect with them. I will also be working on counseling students who have discipline or attendance issues to find ways to improve things. I am also planning on classroom guidance lessons and getting in the classroom for each level once per month. A lofty goal, but one I am going to shoot for.
I have made my office my own, and have worked on bulletin boards. It is important for students to see my personality and find that comfort to come and talk to me. I love inspiring others and want students to always improve their self-esteem and self-talk. That will be one of my main focuses.
A few more plans I have for this year are: keeping track of how my time is spent, and keeping my door open. I want to be able to look back at this year and know exactly how my time was spent and that I can show others how time was utilized. This will provide feedback to areas that need more focus and give me ideas for improvement. My door will only be closed when I am conferencing with a student or I am not in my office. I want students, staff, parents and anyone to feel that I am there to help and willing to listen to issues they may be having. By having the open door, the simple barrier of walking by or not knocking is gone. It is a much more inviting feel.
I cannot wait to share my ride as a first year school counselor with you as the school year progresses. Relax, sit back and enjoy the ride! I know I will!
Have a great year!
