Philosophy and Goals
Each school recognizes that children grow and develop at different rates and in different ways. To a greater or lesser extent, children may require assistance and support in adjusting to particular stages of personal, social or cognitive development.
Within each school, the counselor works cooperatively with parents, teachers, administrators and other specialists to provide needed support for students. Our shared goal is to ensure a successful school experience for students, one in which they develop a positive sense of self, the skills to interact productively and the maturity to make wise decisions. Through this cooperative effort, we hope that students will be able to utilize their potential in constructive, responsible and satisfying ways.
The Role of the Elementary School Counselor
Direct support to children in the school setting may involve individual and/or group counseling on a weekly, short-term or crisis intervention basis. Referrals for counseling services are made by parents, teachers and, sometimes, students themselves. Ongoing counseling requires parental knowledge and permission, whereas a counselor may see a child on a crisis intervention basis without the prior consent of the parents. Issues for counseling cover a broad range. Counseling may encourage age-appropriate social development, help children develop academic confidence or promote understanding of personal/emotional issues.
Consultation with parents, teachers, specialists, and administrators is valuable in assessing a student's needs and planning an appropriate course of action. Each counselor consults regularly with staff in his/her building to coordinate services provided to students. In addition to regularly scheduled planning meetings, the counselor consults with parents, teachers, and administrators on an "as needed" basis. When appropriate, the counselors may observe children in the school setting to provide information to teachers and/or parents regarding the child's school behavior and attitude.
Parents are encouraged to discuss concerns with the counselor in order to gain perspective concerning behaviors and developmental issues. The counselor has extensive experience with the therapeutic community in and around Acton and maintains a list of resources outside of the school setting for families to utilize, if they so choose.