Counselor Corner

Hello wonderful families and students!

What I'm Here For

As your school counselor, I'm here to support every student's academic, social, and emotional growth. Whether you need someone to talk through a challenge, help with study strategies, work on friendship skills, or just need a listening ear, my door is always open. I believe every student has the potential to shine, and I'm here to help them discover their strengths and navigate any bumps along the way.

Students can visit me for: 

• Academic support and study skills • Social skills and friendship concerns
• Managing big emotions and stress • Goal setting and problem-solving • Conflict resolution • Or simply when you need someone who cares to listen

Important Announcements

*National Bullying Prevention Month- It's a nationwide campaign to raise awareness, educate communities, and promote kindness and inclusion to stop bullying.

This Month's Lessons:

We're focusing on Bullying Prevention this month! Students are learning
in kindergarten through 3rd Grade:

  • Definition of bullying with the three critical elements (power imbalance, repetition, intent to harm) The difference between a student that is being rude, mean, or bullying

  • Four main types explained: verbal, social/relational, physical, and cyberbullying

  • What students being bullied can do. (Walking away confidently and seeking safe spaces, staying calm and not reacting emotionally, tell a trusted adult—whether a parent, teacher, counselor, or school administrator, surrounding yourself with supportive friends)

  • Learn Why and Ways Bystanders can become "Upstanders" (safe intervention, support, reporting)  

We're focusing on Bullying Prevention this month! Students are learning
in 4th through 6th Grade:

    • Definition of bullying with the three critical elements (power imbalance, repetition, intent to harm, one sided)

    • Four main types explained: verbal, social/relational, physical, and cyberbullying

    • What students being bullied can do. (Walking away confidently and seeking safe spaces, staying calm and not reacting emotionally, tell a trusted adult—whether a parent, teacher, counselor, or school administrator, surrounding yourself with supportive friends)

    • Learn Why and Ways Bystanders can become "Upstanders" (safe intervention, support, reporting)  

Understanding and Responding to Bullying

Immediate Response Strategies

When bullying occurs, students can protect themselves by staying calm and not reacting emotionally, which often removes the satisfaction bullies seek. Walking away confidently and seeking safe spaces with trusted adults or friends can defuse situations quickly.

Communication Approaches

Students should tell a trusted adult—whether a parent, teacher, counselor, or school administrator. Many students hesitate to report bullying, but speaking up is essential for getting support and stopping the behavior. Using assertive (not aggressive) language like "Stop, I don't like that" can sometimes be effective, though students should never put themselves at risk.

Building Support Networks

Surrounding yourself with supportive friends creates safety in numbers and reduces isolation. Joining clubs, activities, or groups helps build these connections. Students should remember they're not alone—many peers and adults want to help.

Documentation Matters

Keeping records of bullying incidents (dates, times, what happened, witnesses) helps adults take appropriate action. For cyberbullying, students should save screenshots and messages as evidence.

Self-Care and Resilience

Bullying affects mental health, so students should engage in activities they enjoy, practice stress-relief techniques, and talk to counselors if they're struggling emotionally. Building confidence through hobbies and achievements helps maintain self-esteem.

What Doesn't Work

Students should avoid fighting back physically, as this can escalate situations and lead to consequences. They shouldn't blame themselves—bullying reflects the bully's behavior, not the target's worth.

Bystander Power

Students who witness bullying can make a difference by supporting targets, reporting incidents, and refusing to join in or stay silent. Standing up for others creates a culture where bullying isn't tolerated.

Remember: seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Every student deserves to feel safe at school.