IRPS

September 2007

Hello! I'm Laurie Saling the school counselor at Irene Reither. This month I will be visiting your child's classroom to introduce myself and share with the students some activities I will be doing this year with students. I would also like to share the counseling program and services with parents as well.

* My schedule is Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 8:45-4:00.

 "ADVENTURES IN COUNSELING"
A Program Description of IRPS School Counseling with Laurie Saling

Respect Program (K-3 classroom guidance lessons)

This program integrates the District adopted anti-bullying curriculum "Take A Stand", Second Step Violence Prevention Curriculum, and Character Education.  It also reinforces the Student Responsibility Plan. Lessons are designed as an "adventure."  This experiential, hands-on approach allows students to actually experience cooperation, respect, tolerance, problem-solving, etc. activities. Through such activities and reflection students have the opportunity to practice new skills and evaluate successes, or areas to strengthen.  I visit each classroom/grade level once a month for a lesson. In the fall I will focus on the anti-bullying curriculum "Take a Stand" and will focus on conflict-resolution in the winter.  Check the IRPS monthly newsletter for the lesson topic of the month!

S.A.I.L. "Successful Adventures In Life" :  A Recess Program

All students are welcome to come to S.A.I.L. at lunch recess to play a selection of games or an organized activity.  This is a wonderful opportunity for students to expand their circle of friends with fellow peers. Specific friendship and problem-solving skills will be integrated in a fun, hands-on way. This program will start in October on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Individual/Small Group Counseling

Counseling support is scheduled on an as needed basis with parental consent. This is also an opportunity for connecting families with community resources to support their child's education and a healthy family.

Consultation and Coordination

Educational, behavioral, and social-emotional concerns are all areas I consult with teachers, staff, parents, students and community resources to meet a student's specific needs. I also lead the Student Assistance Team (SAT). This team consists of parents, classroom teachers, Resource Teachers, School Wide Title One Teachers, and the Principal working as a team to create a plan to support a student's learning needs.

• If you have any program questions, or would like to inquire about counseling support for your child, please call me at 398-2111/direct line 318-2576.

I am looking forward to a wonderful school year!!

Laurie Saling
M. Ed. School Counseling