Counselor's Corner: Support & Services

    WLES Counselors - Ms. Nikki Jesse & Mrs. Diyana J Sanders-Gunaratnam

     

    Counselors Support Students

    The school counselor teaches skills in the 5 MCPS Student Counseling Standards (PDF): Academic Development, Personal Development, Interpersonal Development, Career Development, and Healthy Development. Each year the counselor develops goals to address each of these areas in Classroom lessons and small groups.

     

    Individual Counseling

    The school counselor addresses individual needs, and concerns which can impede academic achievement. Students can self-refer themselves to see the counselor when needed through "Counselor Talk" forms located in each classroom. Students then place these in a secure place outside my office. Parents and teachers can also refer their students to see the counselor at any time

     

    Small Group Counseling

    The school counselor leads small groups to teach skills and provide support in specific areas of need such as improving social interactions with peers, improving classroom behavior, adjustment to school, family changes, study skills, organizational skills, self-concept and esteem, and coping skills. Groups are 30 minutes in duration, meet during the lunch/recess hour for 6-8 weeks, and groups consist of about 4-6 students.

    Classroom Guidance Lessons

    Classroom lessons are a collaborative effort between teachers and counselors. The counselor works with the teachers to meet the needs of each classroom and by infusing our reading focus into every classroom lesson. Lessons are focused on the 6 Pillars of Character (Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Citizenship, and Caring) as well as the 5 MCPS Student Counseling Standards (academic, personal, interpersonal, career, and healthy development). Some topics within these areas of development may include:

    • Study skills
    • Learning styles
    • Conflict resolution
    • Confidence building
    • Decision making
    • Goal setting
    • Effective communication
    • Careers
    • Personal safety

    Individual Planning

    The school counselor assists students, in close collaboration with parents, to make good decisions about academic programs, educational choices, personal goals, and career opportunities.

    School Program Support

    The school counselor supports school programs, school climate and academic achievement.