Counseling
Parents, the press, administrators and the general public often wonder just what it is that school counselors do on a daily basis. Gone are the days of school counselors sitting in their office simply handing out college applications, making schedule changes for students who want to drop a class or meeting with the troublemakers in the school. Today's school counselors are vital members of the education team. They help all students in the areas of academic achievement; personal/social development and career development, ensuring today's students become the productive, well-adjusted adults of tomorrow. (ASCA website, 2012)
Meet Your School Counselors
Students whose last name begins with A-L
Mrs. Baldwin is a K-12 certified school counselor who comes to us with many years of experience in community counseling. She has experience working with all age groups and in a variety of mental health environments. Mrs. Baldwin is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor through the Pennsylvania State Certification Board. Mrs. Baldwin works with students whose last names begin with A to L.
Students whose last name begins with M-Z
Mr. Ryan Janesko is a PreK - 12 certified school counselor. He is a graduate of the North Pocono School District and Marywood University where he received both his undergraduate and graduate degrees. Mr. Janesko is a Nationally Certified Counselor who works with students whose last name begins with M to Z.
So what exactly can you expect from your child’s middle school counselor?
As your child’s counselor, we support them in their efforts to learn, assist them in their social and emotional growth, and guide them in their transitions into Middle School and as they move to High School. We meet with students one-on-one and in small groups addressing various topics such as decision-making, problem solving, anger management, interpersonal issues, academic issues and grief. Topics vary with need year to year. We also address career preparedness with our 8th grade students in a classroom setting.
We serve as a liaison between school and home as well as school and community health services when needed. We are also members of the Student Assistance Team, Olweus and Child Study Team. These teams further address the academic and emotional needs of our students. Referrals to the Student Assistance Team can be made by a concerned peer, parent, teacher or community member. The purpose of these groups is to identify children “at risk” and link them with appropriate services.
We work as partners with parents, teachers, community agencies and students to make the middle school years as productive as possible. We extend an open invitation to all parents to call us at any time with any questions or concerns, or just to keep us informed. We can be reached at (570) 842-4588.
Resources for Parents
Appointments/Check-Ins: Although we have specific students for which we are responsible, we work very closely as a team. Therefore, it is never the case that a student can not be seen because the “assigned” counselor is not available. If we are out of the office for a meeting, the student can fill out a counselor request form. We make every effort to see a student within 24 hours of the request.
Faculty: Each team is listed on the public site. Each teacher has a google classroom that is updated regularly. Your student will be able to access their assignments/ study guides and the calendar for upcoming assignments.
Bully referrals: This form will be submitted anonymously to our bully committee and will be addressed within 3 school days. If the referral requires a more immediate response, it should be made directly to administration or the school counselors.