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"Why Elementary School Counseling?  The elementary school years set the foundation for developing the knowledge, attitudes and skills necessary for children to become healthy, competent, and confident learners.  Elementary school counselors have an impact on these years by implementing a comprehensive school counseling program and collaborating with school staff, parents, and the community to create a safe and respectful learning environment.  By providing education, prevention, early identification and intervention, elementary school counselors help their students achieve academic success, develop an understanding of career opportunities and develop social/emotional skills in response to issues they face."    - ASCA "The Essential Role of Elementary School Counselors"

The school counseling program at Good Shepherd follows the ASCA model and standards to provide a positive impact of student learning.  Mrs. Kapler supports Good Shepherd through direct and indirect services for our students.  


The direct services provided in our school counseling program are:
- Counselor connection (classroom lessons)
- Individual counseling
- Small group counseling


The indirect services provided in our school counseling program are:
- Data analysis
- Collaboration with community resources
- PBIS
- Consultation

Contact Information:
Kristen Kapler
262-338-7881 ext 118
kkapler@gslswb.org


Counseling Services
 

Direct Services

Classroom Connection is a way for all students in a class to learn life skills that will lead them to make a positive impact in our community.  Lessons may include emotional regulation, problem solving, personal safety, decision making, diversity, social skills, growth mindset or career exploration.

Small Group  

Small Group is a great way for students who need support in specific areas to learn skills that will make them successful.  Small groups are offered to all students.  Below are the small groups offered at Good Shepherd.  If you wish to sign your student up for a small group, please contact Mrs. Kapler.

- Banana Split (Family changes)
- Wiggle Worms (self- control)
- Roller-Coaster (emotional regulation)
- I Love my Selfie (self-esteem/leadership girls)
- Student Success Group (study skills)
- Wise Guys (self-esteem/leadership boys)
- Worry Warriors (anxiety)
- Grief Relief (grief)

Individual Counseling  

Individual counseling is providing for students who need one-on-one counseling to help them achieve their goal.  Please see Mrs. Kapler if you wish to refer your student.

Indirect Services
Consultation- Share strategies that support student learning with parents, teachers, administrators, and the school board.  

Referrals-  Washington County is blessed to have many community resources.  A school counselor may find resources that support a student's need and work together with that resource to provide a holistic plan for a student.

PBIS- Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports is a framework used in education to provide a safe, healthy, and positive school environment.  PBIS also strives increase positive behaviors.  PBIS was launched at Good Shepherd in 2018.  For more information on PBIS click here.
 
Data- A vital role for a school counselor is to ensure all students have their needs met.  Good Shepherd collects data through formal and informal assessments to ensure our curriculum and classroom delivery align with the demands of a 21st century learner and growing God's kingdom.  Data is analyzed to build supports for students who may need additional services or to expand students learning who are twice exceptional.

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