Monday, September 18, 2017

A Pirate-Themed Adventure: Exploring the Role of a School Counselor in a Meet the Counselor Introduction Lesson!


Ahoy, me hearties! Gather 'round and listen closely as I spin ye a tale of me quest to present meself as a school counselor in the most swashbucklin' way possible. This year, I set me sights on a pirate theme, for it be a theme close to me heart. If ye've been followin' me other posts on this Blog, ye know well that me love for pirates runs deep. So, I hatched a grand plan—a Virtual Treasure Hunt fit for the most adventurous of young souls!

To set the stage for me role, I conjured up riddles that would lead the young scallywags on a journey through the treacherous seas of knowledge learnin’ about the role of the school counselor. With each riddle I read, the students would carefully choose a picture on me interactive map, guidin' them to their next clue. Aye, the excitement grew with every step, as they drew closer to unveilin' the greatest treasure of all—discoverin' that their school counselor be the true gem in their lives!












Once the final clue be unraveled and the treasure revealed, we gathered together like a crew of pirates, eager to delve deeper into the mysteries of the high seas. I unfurled a grand pirate diagram, complete with labels that marked every piece of a pirate's gear and attire. We discussed each part in detail, and as we did, I cleverly wove in examples of how I, too, don me metaphorical pirate hat to help the students navigate the sometimes choppy waters of school and life. They listened with wide-eyed wonder, their imaginations takin' flight as they saw me in a whole new light.


But our adventure was far from over, me hearties! I had one more trick up me sleeve—a game to test their mettle and camaraderie. 'Twas called Cannon Ball Catch, a test of skill and wit. I stood before me young crew, holdin' a small, weighted ball in me hand, a symbol of the mighty cannonballs that pirates be accustomed to. With a mighty heave, I tossed the ball to the first eager matey, who swiftly caught it with a gleam in their eye. "Tell me somethin' special about ye," I challenged, and the young scallywag did not disappoint. With a grin, they shared a tidbit about themselves afore passin' the ball to the next eager soul. And so it went, the ball makin' its way from one brave matey to another, each one sharin' a unique piece of their story.


Now, with me seasoned fifth graders, I decided to raise the stakes. I challenged them to think harder, to come up with somethin' I didn't already know about 'em. 'Twas no easy task, for I had been by their side for a good three years, witnessin' their growth and adventures. Yet still, they surprised me time and time again, as they dug deep to unearth hidden gems within their own hearts and minds.

So, me hearties, let us raise our mugs of grog in a toast to the power of imagination, to the spirit of discovery, and to the everlasting bond between a school counselor and their crew of eager learners. Sail on, me mateys, and may ye always find the treasures that lie within ye!

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Looking for more Meet the Counselor Lessons? Check these out!

          



Monday, September 4, 2017

Transforming a Tiny School Counseling Office Space: Creative Makeover Ideas and Clever Storage Solutions

My Marvelous Journey into a Tiny Office Space

I'm absolutely thrilled to share my experience from this year! It's been quite a journey, as I was offered the chance to embrace a cozy little office space. Initially, I must admit, I wasn't too thrilled about leaving behind my spacious, sunlit classroom for a compact 10' x 12' office with zero windows. It felt like a significant downgrade, considering I was accustomed to much larger spaces. Instead of dwelling on downsizing, I decided to embrace the concept of working in a smaller area.

From Spacious to Snug

Even though I no longer had a table with chairs or a walk-in closet to store all my supplies, I was determined to create a productive environment for small group sessions. The office came equipped with only six cabinets, but I viewed it as an opportunity to channel my inner enthusiasm for the Tiny Living Movement. I thought to myself, "Why not seize this chance to go tiny?" And without hesitation, I did just that!

 If you are interested in seeing the big classroom that I moved from, click HERE!

A Visual Vortex

Let me share with you the amazing transformation that took place in my office! My main goal was to turn this sterile, plain room into a space that students would absolutely love visiting. To kick things off, I embarked on a mission to make it visually inviting and full of character.





Hand-Drawn Posters and Chalkboard Charms

My first stroke of genius was picking up some chalk-paper contact paper from Walmart. Armed with this magical material, I covered the doors of my cabinets, instantly giving them a fresh and vibrant look. But that was just the beginning! I took it upon myself to hand-draw all the posters using fabulous chalk markers. It was like being an artist in my own little creative sanctuary.

With each stroke of the chalk marker, the room came alive with colors, doodles, and educational illustrations. It was a labor of love, as I poured my heart and soul into each poster, making sure they were engaging and captivating for my students. The transformation was nothing short of remarkable!

Now, when students step into my office, they're greeted by a world of imagination and learning. The chalk-paper-covered cabinets serve as a canvas of inspiration, and the hand-drawn posters add a touch of whimsy and personalization. I couldn't be happier with the results, and I can confidently say that my office has become a true haven for creativity and exploration.

                                          








A Relic Reborn

You won't believe the adventure I had with an old, rusty file cabinet that came my way! It was a relic, older than my firstborn, with dents and rust spots. But you know what? I saw it as a fantastic opportunity for a creative project. With a little bit of ingenuity and a whole lot of excitement, I decided to give it a fabulous makeover.

First things first, I grabbed that trusty chalkboard contact paper, the very same one I used for the cabinet doors. With patience and determination, I covered every inch of that file cabinet, turning it into a magnificent canvas just waiting to be transformed. And boy, did I take it to the next level!

To add an extra touch of pizzazz, I headed straight to the Dollar Tree, where I stumbled upon a treasure trove of 8 x 10 frames. A quick trip to the hardware store for some spray paint and those frames were transformed into little bursts of color and personality. I placed them strategically on the file cabinet, giving it a polished and cohesive look.

But the real magic happened when I decided to label each of the drawers with uplifting reminders. Picture this: as you open the drawer, you're greeted with charming labels that read "Smile," "Laugh," "Inspire," and "Relax." It's a little touch of whimsy that brings a daily dose of joy and positivity into my workspace.





Creating Captivating Memories

For my bulletin board, I plan on adding pictures that I take throughout the year to my board.


Overhead Lighting with Garden Glows

Finally, the overhead fluorescent lighting was just too much. So I added garden lighting to soften the look.


Solutions for Storage and Seating

Oh, let me share with you the clever solutions I found to tackle my storage and seating needs for small group challenges! I wanted to make sure I had everything in place to accommodate my students comfortably and efficiently. So, I went on a shopping spree to find the perfect dual-use items.

First, let's talk about these incredible stools I discovered. Not only are they stylish and functional, but they also have a hidden surprise. Guess what? The lids come off! It's like a magic trick unfolding before your eyes. Underneath, I stashed all the essential supplies needed for small group activities. It's the perfect blend of practicality and space-saving brilliance.

But I didn't stop there! To maximize the storage potential of my bookshelves, I invested in some decorative cloth boxes. These boxes not only add a touch of charm to the shelves, but also provide additional space to store more supplies. It's like a treasure trove of educational goodies neatly organized and easily accessible.

And the best part? With these innovative storage solutions, I've been able to comfortably accommodate groups as large as six! Isn't that amazing? I couldn't be happier with how everything has come together. It's a testament to the power of creativity and resourcefulness.

Now, as I look around my transformed office, I feel a sense of accomplishment and excitement. I'm fully prepared to take on any small group challenges that come my way. My students will have a cozy and organized space where they can learn, collaborate, and grow together.

With the dual-use stools, hidden supplies, and decorative cloth boxes, my office is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. It's a haven of productivity and creativity, where the possibilities are endless. I can't wait to see the smiles on my students' faces as they discover the magical surprises hidden within the stools! 

All in all, I'm confident that my tiny office is ready to conquer any challenges that come my way. It's a testament to the power of thinking outside the box and finding creative solutions to transform limitations into opportunities.

In the end, it's the little details that make all the difference. And in my tiny, transformed office, every corner is infused with a contagious spirit of enthusiasm and inspiration!

Here's a previous Office Redo you may like to check out!







Saturday, August 26, 2017

Enhancing Student Recognition With International Baccalaureate Learner Profile Attributes!


Hey everyone! We've got some fantastic updates to share about our Student Recognition Program. But first, let's talk about what it means to be an IB candidate school.

Being an IB candidate school is a big deal! It means we're on our way to becoming an official International Baccalaureate (IB) school. The IB program is recognized worldwide for its high standards and commitment to fostering well-rounded students. It focuses on developing essential skills, global awareness, and a love for learning.

By integrating the IB framework into our Student Recognition Program, we're taking our commitment to excellence to a whole new level. We're embracing the values and principles of the IB Learner Profiles, which are at the core of the program. These profiles highlight qualities that go beyond traditional academic achievements, such as being caring, balanced, and reflective individuals.

So, what does this mean for our students? Well, they'll have the opportunity to be recognized not only for their academic achievements but also for the qualities that make them exceptional human beings. Our revamped recognition program will shine a spotlight on students who embody the IB Learner Profiles, celebrating their growth, character, and contributions to our school community.

As an IB candidate school, we're immersing our students in an educational journey that encourages them to become lifelong learners. The IB philosophy fosters critical thinking, encourages curiosity, and nurtures a sense of global citizenship. By aligning our recognition program with the IB framework, we're instilling these values in our students and helping them develop the skills they need to succeed in an interconnected world.

So, let's celebrate this exciting milestone on our path to becoming an official IB school. Our Student Recognition Program, now infused with the IB framework, will empower our students to become well-rounded individuals, equipped with the skills and mindset necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world. Together, we're shaping a brighter future for our students, one recognition at a time!





Monday, August 21, 2017

New Student Survival Kits: Welcoming Students and Building Connections with Your School Counselor


Hey there, it's a brand new year, and guess what? I have a whopping 50 new students, just in 2nd and 4th grade! And that's not even counting the little Kindergartners that are also new to our school! I wanted to give them a warm welcome and make sure they remember who I am and what I do. But with so many new faces, I had to get a little creative without breaking the bank. That's when the idea of the New Student Survival Kits came to me.

These kits are the perfect little gifts to hand out when I meet my new students for the first time. I made a list of 9 items to include in each kit, along with a description of why I chose each one. Such as a band-aid to represent the school counselor is there to help when you get hurt or an eraser to represent that the school counselor helps you understand everyone makes mistakes. Then, I popped everything into a zip-lock bag, along with the list. And you won't believe it—I managed to buy all the items and bags for just $14 at the Dollar Tree. Score!


Now, here's the really exciting part. When new students meet their school counselor, it opens up a world of benefits for them. First and foremost, I'm here to provide support. Whether it's academic, social, or emotional, I'm ready to lend a helping hand. By having that initial meeting and receiving the New Student Survival Kit, students are encouraged to connect with me whenever they need guidance or someone to talk to.

Building a relationship with their school counselor also promotes a sense of belonging and community. I want my students to feel supported and connected within our school. By taking the time to meet them and explain my role, students realize that they have an advocate in their corner. They know they can count on me to create a safe and inclusive environment where they can thrive.

So, with the New Student Survival Kits, I hope to make that initial meeting even more special! 

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Monday, August 14, 2017

Presenting the Heroic School Counseling Program: An Epic Faculty Escape Room Quest


Heroic Introduction: Unveiling the Annual School Counseling Program Overview for Faculty and Staff
Every year we provide an overview of our School Counseling Program for the Faculty and Staff. This year, for our Back to School School Counseling Program overview with the teachers, I devised an exciting and engaging Virtual Escape Room experience. Who doesn’t love a puzzling Escape Room? Behind this fun activity, I had three key goals:

  1. Reviewing our program with the teachers to ensure their familiarity and understanding,
  2. Equipping them with knowledge on where they can ALWAYS find answers to their burning questions about our school-wide programs, and
  3. Making it an enjoyable experience that would stand out amidst their preparations for the new students, rather than just another task to complete.

Epic Escape Quest: Infusing Superhero Excitement into the Back to School Program Overview

The teachers embarked on a Virtual Escape Room quest to find answers within the Google School Counseling Team Drive. We carefully curated 10 questions specifically tailored to our school counseling program. These questions covered various aspects of our comprehensive services, ensuring a comprehensive review. Some inquiries delved into our Direct Services, encompassing essential components like classroom guidance, small groups, and special programs such as Red Ribbon Week, Career Week, and monthly student recognition. Responsive Services were also incorporated, with questions exploring areas like individual counseling, teacher consultations, and referrals to outside agencies. Additionally, we shed light on our crucial System Support, providing insights into the extensive staff and school support we offer. As the teachers diligently searched for answers, they not only progressed through the Escape Room but also grew more acquainted with the multitude of valuable initiatives we undertake to support our students and school community. Upon completion, they checked their score, with each correct answer unveiling a letter that would eventually form the key to escape!

To accomplish this, I designed a Google form containing 10 questions related to our program. To set the stage, I crafted an intriguing backstory: "Evil villains have infiltrated your school, exiling all the superheroes to the Principal's office. As a superhero, you possess super speed and super strength, but overcoming the challenging puzzles in the villains' plot will require more. You have 15 minutes to free yourselves by solving 10 riddles and save the day. Can you escape before the tardy bell tolls? After submitting your answers, select 'view your score.' Each correct answer will reveal a letter, contributing to the final secret code needed for your escape. If your answers are not all correct, exit the score report, select 'edit your response,' and resubmit with the correct answers to unlock the remaining letters."

The teachers embraced the challenge enthusiastically, fueling a competitive atmosphere. The first team to successfully complete the Escape Room was rewarded with a bucket full of valuable school supplies. Not only did they enjoy the experience, but they also gained substantial knowledge about our program.

Unleashing the Power of Presenting the School Counseling Program at the Beginning of the Year

Presenting your School Counseling Program at the beginning of the year establishes a foundation of awareness and understanding that lasts throughout the school year. Here is what you have to look forward to:

Collaboration: Presenting your program fosters collaboration between the counseling department and faculty/staff, laying the groundwork for teamwork in supporting students.

Awareness: Sharing your program raises awareness among faculty/staff about the available resources and services, ensuring everyone is informed.

Communication: Presenting your program establishes clear communication channels, facilitating easy guidance, support, and referrals.

Referral Process: Explaining your referral process simplifies student referrals, ensuring timely and appropriate interventions.

Targeted Interventions: Familiarity with your program enables collaboration to identify and address specific student needs effectively.

Holistic Support: Educating faculty/staff about your program encourages integration of counseling principles into student interactions, fostering a supportive environment.

Improved Outcomes: Awareness of your program aligns efforts toward promoting student success and contributes to improved academic, social, and emotional outcomes.

Proactive Prevention: Emphasizing preventive measures and proactive strategies reduces crises, creating a positive school climate.

Professional Development: Presenting your program may lead to future professional development opportunities based on faculty/staff interest.

Supportive Culture: Sharing your program promotes a supportive school culture, emphasizing collective responsibility for student well-being and success.

Given the resounding success of this presentation, I have decided to continue being creative in the way I present my School counseling Program each year!


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Check out another Beginning of the Year Presentation Here: