Guidance Services are available at GES for all students. The goal is to support student success, create a cohesive learning community and foster positive peer relationships. These goals are attained by providing the services listed below:

Classroom Counseling

Classroom guidance activities are utilized primarily as a means of prevention and an opportunity for the guidance counselor to get to know all the children in the school. Each classroom is given the opportunity to participate in 8 weeks of guidance lessons. The guidance curriculum is a scaffolded approach; it is designed to build upon skill sets acquired from previous lessons. Younger classrooms begin with basic social skills lessons which will ultimately progress into group initiatives and team challenges as they enter 4th grade. The curriculum is flexible and allows room for adaptability to meet the needs of the classroom. Classroom guidance lessons are also available on an as needed basis to help support classroom teachers whenever possible.

Small Group Counseling

When students have similar concerns, they may meet together as a group. Referrals may come from classroom teachers or parents/guardians. Groups may include topics such as social skills, anger management, anxiety, self-esteem or coping strategies to help students develop successful methods of managing emotions and relationships to feel successful. Small groups typically run for 6-8 weeks and parent permission is obtained. Group times are coordinated with classroom teachers to insure as little academic interruption as possible.

Individual Counseling

If a student requires more 1:1 or personalized counseling, individual counseling sessions are available. Referrals may come from classroom teachers, staff , parents/guardians or the student may access the counselor as needed. If consistent, weekly contact is required, parent permission will be obtained. Individual counseling sessions will be student centered and offer a variety of opportunities for students to learn how to manage emotions, increase self-esteem, feel confident about academics and develop positive self-thought.

Teacher Support

In order to maximize student performance within the classroom, counselors work with teachers to understand behavior, discuss strategies and plan for appropriate educational interventions.

Parent Support

Counselors work with parents to solve problems and deal with issues as they arise both within the school environment as well as at home. Counselors act as a resource for parents around issues such as child development, learning strategies, coping strategies, anxiety, sibling rivalry, divorce, grief and discipline.

Teamwork

Counselors participate on teams which monitor student behavior and academic progress. These teams plan more formal interventions and services for students such as occupational therapy services, speech therapy and formal behavior plans.