September 10-14

It has been an exciting second week of school.  I was able to get in to each of the classes this week for a getting acquainted lesson.  In Kindergarten and 1st grade I started with a sharing time to learn more about each student and begin to learn the names of our kindergartners.  I also do a "magic trick" to help the students understand that talking to a trusted adult about uncomfortable feelings can help them to feel happier.  After a discussion about a variety of uncomfortable feelings we turn them into happier feelings (this is demonstrated by turning fish into flowers.)  I also handed out a sheet explaining about my role as School Counselor, and if you are reading this you found the blog address on that sheet.  I started the year with 2nd graders with a sharing/community circle time, explaining the role of the school counselor and reading the book Stand Tall Molly Lou Melon. 

In grades 3-5 we kicked the year off getting to know one another better by playing a "Would You Rather" back to school game.  When reflecting with the students about what they learned comments that I heard were; I learned that some of my friends make different choices than me, we are all different, my friend likes snakes better than spiders.  It turned out to be a fun way to start our year in CALS.

For the next several weeks we will be learning about Academic Success.  In grades K-2 I will be teaching the School of Champions curriculum.  In grades 3-5 we will be doing a variety of different study skill activities.

I will also be meeting with each student for a short amount of time, this time will be called "Minute Meetings."  I am hoping to get to know everyone just a little bit better.  I also want the students to know that I am here if they need help solving a problem.

Thanks for checking in!