Who are school counselors?
“School counselors work to maximize student success, promoting access and equity for all students.  As vital members of the school leadership team, school counselors create a school culture of success for all.” (ASCA)

How will I do this for your student?

1. Advocate, advocate, advocate!!

2. Help your student learn to manage their emotions using skills they have and ones they will learn.

3. Provide Guidance Lessons for all students on topics relevant to House Creek students.

4. Identify student challenges and needs and address them.

5. Collaborate with families, teachers, administrators, and community to provide the most useful tools necessary for student growth and achievement.

6. Other: individual and group counseling; participate in campus initiatives that honor students, family and community; work closely with staff to understand the needs of students; offer after-school clubs that focus on building useful and positive character.

Clubs offered through the Counseling Department:

ES2S: Our Award-winning Team participates in multiple opportunities throughout the school year to strengthen and celebrate our amazing students.  Service projects, leadership development, and strong work ethic are just a few of the topics discussed.

HOPE Squad: This group of 4th and 5th graders work hard to Help Others Problem-solve Effectively.  As peer mediators, these students learn the art of communication and conflict resolution.

For questions or concerns, please contact Amy Simpson or call House Creek Elementary at 254-518-3000.

How do I contact the School Counselor?
House Creek Elementary School Counselor Contact Information:
Email Amy Simpson
254-518-3000

If my student is doing At-Home learning, will he/she still be able to speak to the counselor?
Yes. If your student needs to speak to the counselor, the parent should contact the counselor either by phone or through email/Schoology to set up an appropriate time for the counselor and student to meet. The meeting can take place either by phone or the student may come into the office. The counselor will make every attempt to answer within 24-48 hours during the school week to set up a good time. 

What information should an At-Home learner/parent include in their message when trying to set up an appointment with the campus counselor?
Email, Schoology, or phone messages should include the following: Student first and last name, grade level, contact number and a brief explanation of the reason for contacting the counselor. Please allow up to 24-48 hours during the school week for the counselor to respond.

How are students taught to cope with frustration, anger, and other challenging feelings? Who teaches these skills and what are the strategies they teach?
During the first few weeks of school, students will learn coping skills from many different staff members in different locations throughout the school. The school counselor will also visit each classroom to introduce the counseling program to students and how to get in touch with the counselor if the need arises. Throughout the school year, the counselor will continue to visit classrooms and teach skills necessary to work through anger, frustration, bullying, anxiety, kindness, acceptance, etc. If a student shows a need for a more focused approach to certain struggles, they will have the opportunity to meet with the counselor individually or within a group. Parents will be notified and permission obtained if this is necessary.

If my child is participating in At–Home learning will my child have a chance to speak to the School Counselor? 
Contact the school counselor through Schoology, send an email, or call Halstead Elementary School.  The counselor will respond within 24 – 48 hours.   

How will these resources be shared if my student will be doing At–Home learning?
At the beginning of each month, a Counseling Newsletter will be posted on Schoology offering parents and students information regarding different resources available to students and family during this trying time. The counselor’s contact information will always appear on the newsletter and can also be found on the school’s webpage. Information concerning the Guidance Lessons presented to students each Six Weeks on campus will also be made available on Schoology. 

How can students tell teachers when they are feeling upset or in need of support without the rest of the class knowing?
On-Campus learners may approach any adult staff member in the school and request an opportunity to speak with the counselor. The counselor will make every effort to meet with students the same day they request this service. There are also two drop boxes where students can fill out a short form and request to see the counselor. Students are made aware where these boxes are and how to fill out the form at the beginning of the school year. Students participating in At-Home learning can reach out to their homeroom teacher or campus counselor through Schoology or email with questions or concerns.

How will meetings be held for 504 students?
504 meetings can be held in person or through a phone conference.  Annual reviews will be held on an as – needed basis.  

What do I do if I think my At–Home learner might qualify for 504 services?
If you believe your At-Home learner might qualify for 504 services, please contact the campus counselor who will walk you through the process involved in determining eligibility. The counselor can be reached by emailing here or by calling 518-3000 and asking to speak with Amy Simpson. 

What resources are available through the community if my student or family need support?
Please refer to the Community Resources tab to find a list of agencies, service providers, and community resources available.