Guidance

Dear Parents,                                          August 1, 2012

            As the counselor at Orange Beach Elementary School I strive to provide a comprehensive counseling and guidance program to ensure that all students have opportunities to acquire knowledge in the areas of Self and Others, Educational Goals, and Career Planning.

            In order to achieve these goals, I conduct classroom guidance activities, conduct small group counseling sessions outside the classroom, and individual counseling when necessary.  I consult with teachers and staff to enhance their effectiveness in helping students as well as consulting with parents.  When necessary I can and will make referrals for students and their parents to appropriate outside resources.

            As mentioned I conduct small group sessions.  These groups change every nine weeks, as do the topics, which include appropriate school behavior, anger management, social skills, study skills, separated families, and grief recovery.  The teachers make referrals, but if you have a specific concern about your child, let either your child's teacher or me know.

            The Problem Solving Team is also available.  The PST is a designated school-based committee designed to meet the needs of general education students that are at risk of academic and /or chronic behavior challenges.  The purpose of the PST is to provide aid through a plan for students in general education that are struggling academically and /or behaviorally.  The plan provides interventions that are implemented within the classroom.  After the plan is implemented and reviewed for its effectiveness, suggestions are made for future recommendations.

            I will inform you about important dates to remember regarding assessment dates as they approach. 

            If at any time I can be of help to you or your child or if you have any questions please contact me at 251-981-5662. 

fdrake@bcbe.org

Sincerely,

Fran Drake