September 8, 2019
- by Counselor Up
Social Emotional Learning in Academic Instruction
Social emotional learning in academic instruction is having its moment. While counselors have been supporting the whole child and taking a deep look at noncognitive skills, the bandwagon has now officially been joined. If not, here are some ways to increase buy-in. What a great time to be a counselor! In my state, schools are […]
Continue reading March 26, 2019
Fidgets are Tools, Not Toys
After fidget spinners came on the scene, teachers began banning self-regulation tools from the classroom. Students misused them and teachers weren’t prepared for them. These tools get a bad rap when not used properly. Without clear usage rules, they can be a disaster and a distraction. With an effective management plan, using fidget tools in […]
Continue reading February 1, 2019
How do you build relationships with teachers?
A school counselor’s relationships with the teachers in their building is so important for student success. These ideas from Chelsey, Rebecca, Brandy, and Laura will definitely help you build strong relationships with teachers this year.Connecting with TeachersConnecting with teachers is so important, but with all of the other responsibilities we have, it can quickly go […]
Continue reading November 26, 2018
- by Counselor Up
Supporting Staff as a School Counselor
Has your school experienced loss, been effected by natural disasters, or had a particularly stressful year? If so, you know the feeling of seeing your staff overwhelmed by stress. What can you do to help? Take Care of Yourself First, put your own oxygen mask on before assisting others. Assess the stressor that is happening […]
Continue reading November 2, 2018
Strategies for When Teachers Over Refer Students
Part of tiered school counseling services are school counseling referrals from teachers. Getting teachers to make referrals can be a challenge. You can also have teachers who refer way more students than they should. Check out these tips from Laura and Rebecca for how to work with teachers to make necessary referrals.Work With ThemI often […]
Continue reading September 14, 2018
School Counselor Organization: Tracking emails, phone calls, and conversations
School counselors interact with so many different people during the day it is easy to forget a quick conversation in the hallway or a parent stopping you at dismissal. Developing a school counselor organization system that will work for you and your school is so necessary. Check out what three Confident Counselors do to manage […]
Continue reading July 30, 2018
Ways to Introduce the School Counselor’s Role to Students and Staff
We asked Stephanie of School Counselor Stephanie and Brandy of The Counseling Teacher to share how they introduce the school counselor’s role each year. Stephanie discusses how she communicates with students at the beginning of the year. Brandy shares how she explains her program to faculty and staff during the back to school season. Share […]
Continue reading June 4, 2018
How Do You Collaborate with Specialists?
Collaborating with specialists, such as speech and language pathologists, can help you maximize a student’s progress. When everyone working with a student is on the same page, you have the opportunity to reinforce and practice skills in different settings and with different people. Some schools have regular meetings, some make a point to stop by […]
Continue reading January 31, 2018
Handling Uncomfortable Conversations with Staff and Parents
I have a saying, “If it’s uncomfortable, give it to the counselor.” Any time that an awkward or uncomfortable conversation needs to take place with a parent, staff member, or volunteer, counselors are called to use our skills to smooth the way for those involved. Uncomfortable conversations include discussing parenting skills, classroom management, […]
Continue reading September 29, 2017
Conversations: Improving Relationships with Teachers
Teacher Counselor Relationships Have you had a relationship with a teacher that did not get off on the right foot? A teacher who is resistant to a suggested intervention? Check out these tips for improving relationships with teachers in your building. When we work collaboratively with teachers, students succeed. Confident CounselorsWe are a group of […]
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