Valerie Sheppard, Guidance Counsellor
896-3896 vsheppard@lsb.ca
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Buddy's word for May is Acceptance!
Acceptance means that we recognize that we are all different and accept each other for who we are. We are all human beings that deserve respect and kindness.
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In the Book, “A Very Special Critter” by Gina and Mercer Mayer, Little Critter discovers that the new boy in class is really not so different from anyone else, even though he is in a wheelchair.
We can teach children at a very young age that everyone is different, special and beautiful. When children have questions about those that are different from them, be prepared to give a positive answer that promotes acceptance. As Adults we have to be mindful that children watch everything we do, they will pattern the example we provide. Remember Buddy encourages us to always ask ourselves if what we are saying or doing is: Appropriate, Safe, and Kind
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Each month Buddy introduces us to a new word. Activities that incorporate this topic will be facilitated during classroom guidance sessions.
Mission Statement
The goal of the guidance program at Peacock Primary is to foster the overall development of the child. The Counsellor strives to be proactive in the facilitation of knowledge and skills that will help each child reach their full potential.
Role of the Guidance Counsellor
Counselling and Guidance
The Counsellor can provide individual or small group counseling dealing with self- image, self- esteem, personal adjustment, family issues, interpersonal concerns, academic development and behavior modification.
Referral Services
Parents and school personnel may refer children for guidance and counseling services. Referrals to outside agencies ( i.e. Public Health , Mental Health etc) and school board personnel ( Speech-Language Pathologist, Educational Assessment Specialist, etc. ) are done through the guidance office.
Department of Education Referral Forms
http://www.ed.gov.nl.ca/edu/forms/studentsupport/referral.html
Consultation
The Counsellor consults with parents, teachers, and other agencies regarding strategies to help students.
Coordination
The Counsellor may coordinate a variety of indirect services that benefit students. Currently, the counsellor coordinates the Service Delivery Team and Tragic Events School Team.
Assessment
Students may be assessed in areas such as, achievement, behavior, and/or intellectual ability. Assessment information may be gathered through observation, interviews, standardized tests, and behavioral checklists and rating scales. Parents are consulted before this process begins.
Classroom Guidance Program
Implementation of effective classroom guidance activities that focus on understanding of self and others, peer relationships and social skills; communication; problem solving, conflict resolution and career awareness.
Committee Member
The Guidance Counsellor is also a member of the following committees:
Safe and Caring- works with other members of the school community to
develop a safe and caring schools policy
Inclusive Education- works with other members of the school community to promote inclusive practices within the school