School Counseling

The elementary years are a time when students begin to develop their academic self-concept and their feelings of competence and confidence as learners. They are beginning to develop decision- making, communication and life skills, as well as character values. It is also a time when students develop and acquire attitudes toward school, self, peers, social groups and family. Comprehensive developmental school counseling programs provide education, prevention and intervention services, which are integrated into all aspects of children’s lives. Early identification and intervention of children’s academic and personal/social needs is essential in removing barriers to learning and in promoting academic achievement. The knowledge, attitudes and skills that students acquire in the areas of academic, career and personal/social development during these elementary years serve as the foundation for future success (source: American School Counselor Association).

The mission of the Belle Morris School Counseling Program is to assist all students in their quest to become productive citizens and responsible, lifelong learners through their academic development, personal and social growth and career exploration.

Our vision is that the School Counselor will help provide an atmosphere of security, warmth, and encouragement as Belle Morris students work to reach their fullest educational potential in the areas of academic, career, and personal development. The School Counselor will also commit to establishing a solid foundation as Belle Morris students successfully manage their lives as healthy, responsible and productive citizens who respect themselves and others.

The Belle Morris School Counseling Belief Statements are listed below.

1. I believe that ALL students can learn and achieve academic greatness when encouraged and nurtured in a respectful environment.
2. I believe that nurturing ALL students social and emotional well-being will encourage academic development and future success.
3. I believe the school counselor’s role is to provide a data driven, developmental counseling program to meet the needs of ALL students through a guidance curriculum, individual student planning, responsive services, and system support.
4. The school counseling program will promote the following: an understanding of and respect of self and others; problem-solving and decision-making; emotional-management skills; skills for learning; and the influence of academic habits on career success.