Counselor's Corner

Welcome to the Fairfax Elementary School's Counseling Counselor’s Corner

 

Elementary School Counselors

Mission Statement

Our mission is to work as a part of the professional school team to address the academic, personal/social, career, and developmental needs of our students.  To consult and collaborate with other educators, parents, and community members in the development of attributes that will enable students to successfully participate in a global society as responsible citizens.

  Tiger Proud & Bully Free
Jessica Stringer, M.E.d.
School Counselor
Fairfax Elementary
(216) 320-4804
J_stringer@chuh.org

 

What does an elementary school counselor do?

  • Helps ALL children
  • Teaches classroom guidance lessons (focused on: bully free curriculum, understanding of self and others, communication skills, decision making skills, conflict resolution skills, and career exploration)
  • Serves as a permanent member of the Student Assistance Team
  • Assists with crisis intervention
  • Works with children individually and in small groups
  • Consults with parents and teachers
  • Coordinates New Student Program
  • Small and individual group counseling
  • Acts as a consultant and referral source between school, parents, and community
  • Parent presentations and/or community collaboration to support student success
  • Coordinates school testing and supports students

 

 

What might a student talk about while in the counseling office? 

  • Strategies in conflict resolution
  • Feelings about him/herself
  • Difficulty in making or getting along with friends
  • A family problem
  • A school problem
  • A fear or worry
  • A physical concern
  • The need for extra support with difficult situations

 

What might a student do in the counselor's office? 

  • Talk about things that are important to children
  • Reinforce classroom lesson strategies employed in Second Step Curriculum
  • Use games, books, and conversation starters to help children resolve conflict
  • Talk about feelings
  • Work on a plan to reach a goal/implement plan to meet student needs
  • Read stories that help students learn and understand ore about themselves
  • Use as a safe place to calm down when feeling upset
  • Play games to learn ways to relate to others
  • Actively participate in Tiger Proud & Bully Free strategies for a happy and healthy school climate

How does a student get to see the counselor? 

  • The student may ask to go to the counselor’s office or fill out a special kid’s referral form
  • The teacher or principal can send him or her
  • Mom, Dad, or another care provider can request counseling services
  • A school friend may invite him or her for a special visit in any counseling situation

Confidentiality is maintained except: 

1.    In cases of suspected abuse or neglect.

2.    If a child poses a danger to self or others.                       

3.    The child and/or parent/guardian gives permission to share information.

 

More Information