We have a counselor???

I can't tell you how great it feels to be at Pembroke Hill School this year!  From the first day I visited the school to interview I had a strong sense of a positive and inspiring energy in these halls and now I get to watch it firsthand from room 217 everyday.

I am fortunate to work in a field I LOVE!  Children and learning are passions of mine and I have always had a natural inclination to empathize with others.  So, imagine my joy when I discovered the school counseling master's program at UMKC.  It has been a love affair ever since!

After 7 years in the North Kansas City School District as a middle school counselor, I am honored to  bring a fully implemented Comprehensive Guidance Program to PHS.  Essentially there are 4 components to a strong guidance program.
1. Guidance Curriculum - I'll be working with students in their PE/Wellness classes covering topics such as bullying, self-confidence, stress management and substance abuse.
2. Individual Planning - I'll be coordinating the advisory program and helping to support advisors through with their relationship building with students.  I will also work with students who wish to seek out further goal setting and planning one-on-one with me.
3. Responsive Services - I will be available for students to talk with me on an as needed basis.  When they are having a bad day, a conflict, a concern in class, etc.  I also plan to run student groups for those who are grieving, seeking leadership roles, coping with divorce, and other topics.
4. Systems Support - I will be getting involved in school-wide initiatives, making sure our school creates a supportive climate for students and reporting to the administration any concerning trends or safety issues. 

On Wednesday September 4 I plan to attend the parent council meeting to introduce myself and get some feedback from you regarding the best ways I can serve you and your children.  I am very much looking forward to enhancing the strong culture of excellence and character building at PHS by creating this counseling program together with all you!