Guidance
Sandy Andrews, 703-242-6160 Ann O'Brien, 703-242-6162 |
It is our pleasure to say hello to both new and returning students through our visits to each class. We extend a special greeting to our new Flint Hill families. We have been meeting with your children and their newfound friends during their lunchtime. During the year, we try to invite each child to at least one Lunch Bunch.
Classroom guidance lessons (twice monthly) are part of the developmental guidance and counseling program. Lessons are geared to enhance students’ skills in peer relationships, problem solving, and conflict resolution. A review of study and organizational skills is also a guidance unit that we teach. We emphasize respect, responsibility, and caring for ourselves, for others and our community.
As always, counselors are available to meet with parents and individual students. School is a partnership between the home and the classroom. Things that happen at home often affect what happens in the classroom and vice versa. When situations occur that are difficult or painful, they can impact how children perform academically, socially, and emotionally. Life occurrences, such as separation and divorce, death of a loved person or pet, moving to a new home, the arrival of a new baby, etc. can affect each person in the family in different ways. Informing your child’s teacher or counselor during these times will help us support not only children through the process, but parents as well.
In our role as a resource for parents, we listen to concerns and address issues so that, together, we can consider a course of action that will most benefit children and parents. Parent contacts, whether in person, by phone, or email are confidential and are handled discreetly, according to the needs and wishes of parents. We can monitor a child’s progress in school and provide feedback to parents. Small counseling groups are available for certain children throughout the year to focus on a particular topic or concern. Counselors notify parents in advance of this group work which requires parent permission.
When referrals to community resources are warranted or requested, counselors can help with suggestions. Should you need information about parenting classes, personal family assistance, area counseling programs, tutors and learning centers, child development issues, etc., do not hesitate to ask us. We also have a resource area outside our offices (Rooms 108 C and D) where we welcome you to browse.