Classroom Lessons
At least once a month each classroom gets a 30-45 minute lesson on topics like trustworthiness, accepting differences, responsibility, citizenship, friendship.
Small Groups
Students are referred by teachers or parents/guardians to participate in groups of approximately 5 students during the school day at a time that is most convenient for the child and teacher. Parent permission is required for students to attend these groups. The school counselor will send home a needs assessment at the beginning of the school year for parents/guardians to identify any concerns that they would like addressed. Parents/guardians may request at any time for their students to participate in a group. However, groups begin/end at a regular time, so a group may not be immediately available.
Some group possibilities include: Friendship/Peer Relationships; Study skills/Organization; Anger Control; Family Changes/Divorce; Self-Control and School Success; Grief/Loss; Self-Concept; Feelings and Self-expression.
Individual Counseling
Mrs. Hart is available to meet with students individually. Students may ask the teacher to talk to the counselor or write a note. Teachers and parents/guardians may also refer a child who needs individual attention. We will make every attempt to minimize your student missing classroom instruction.
Some possible reasons a student may want to talk to the counselor:
o “I’m getting picked on and I don’t know what to do.”
o “I’m new here and I haven’t made any friends.”
o “When I get really mad, I want to hit people.”
o “I have a hard time focusing in class and getting my schoolwork done.”
o “My friends are ignoring me and I don’t know why.”
o “I don’t like school, because I’m always getting in trouble.”
o “I’m sad because my grandmother just died.”
o “My mom is having another baby and I don’t want to share her.”
Parent/Guardian/Family Involvement
Parent Teacher Association reports research shows that when parents are involved students have:
· Higher grades, test scores, and graduation rates
· Better school attendance
· Increased motivation, better self-esteem
· Lower rates of suspension
· Decreased use of drugs and alcohol
· Fewer instances of violent behavior
We appreciate all that you do and recognize that caring for a child is the most difficult job. We encourage you to become involved with the school, visit for lunch, volunteer, and/or be involved in home learning activities, such as reading, homework, stimulating educational outings, family discussions, and modeling the value of learning and hard work. If you have any questions about how you can be more involved in your child’s education, please feel free to contact me by phone or email. I strive to have communication with every child's family, so please don't hesitate to ask any questions, notify me of any concerns, or make a referral. I will also be working with our Family Engagement Specialist, Helema Vandivier, to provide the best support to families possible.
Character Education
I will be focusing on certain traits each month. The more our students hear/see these messages, the more likely they are to understand and implement them themselves. Your support in this effort is greatly appreciated!
September- Citizenship/Introduction
October – Responsible Decision Making
National Bullying Prevention Month
Red Ribbon Week
November – Self Awareness
December – Relationships
January – Relationship Skills: Respect, Acceptance of Differences
February – Social Awareness: Random Acts of Kindness
March –Career Awareness, Test Taking/Study Skills, Honesty
April – Career Awareness, Test Taking/Study Skills. Honesty
May – Self-Management: Perseverance, Goal-setting
Gifted Referrals
Please notify Mrs. Hart if you would like your child to be tested for Academic Advancement & Enrichment instruction. For additional information, please visit the HCS website at www.hampton.k12.va.us/departments/gifted/gifted.html
Box Tops 4 Education
www.boxtops4education.com/
Please submit all box tops to Mrs. Hart either on the sheets provided or in baggies of 50. Please be sure to check to be sure they haven't expired.