Just curious if any of you work summer school and what that looks like. I have been working elementary summer school for the past 5 years. This year I'm in a new district and am just doing half--2 weeks, which is pretty amazing if you ask me! I get a 2 week break and then I work 2 weeks. I'm just curious about what summer school looks like, especially in elementary. I was working a 6 week program that had 2 sessions, although most students attended both sessions. I did weekly class lessons, but made it manageable by doing 3 weeks of in person lessons for each grade level and 3 weeks of recorded lessons. I also ran a few groups and checked in with a few kids individually. And, of course I also handled any crises that came along. This year I am splitting the job with someone who "just wants to be available for support."

What are you most looking forward to in school counseling this coming week? We have a 1/2 PD day this week and I'm ACTUALLY looking forward to getting things done during that time! 🤫 How about you?

Hi Friends! It's been quiet in here. I think we need a challenge to spice things up.....with a prize for the winner(s)! What say you?

I’m thinking of doing a treat for 100 days of perfect attendance. Thoughts? I know perfect attendance awards are frowned upon in some places so I’m not sure. What do you all think?

I currently work in a split position shared between two elementary buildings. Both buildings have 1.5 school counselors and I am the .5 in both buildings. I am in charge of running small groups in both buildings. One building has mentioned they are willing to be flexible with my role, but not the other. I did not realize how hard this position would be. I miss all the pieces of a comprehensive counseling program. I used to love running small groups, but it was always within the balance of classroom lessons, individual counseling, and collaboration and education of staff. In my district there are 4 or 5 school counselors in a position like mine. Each of them is similar to mine with the split position running small groups. I am currently applying for the 2 open positions in my district that would be only in one building, but I may still be in this position next year. My question for this group is, how do I advocate for a more balanced role? In my head with k-5 buildings, it would make sense to split by grade level. Full time counselor getting 4 grades and part time taking 2. I believe if I had two grade levels at both schools I could get to know all of those students and teachers much better and be better able to support individual and small group counseling needs. I just think it would be a better mix. I feel like whether I stay in this position or move on with a full time/one building position, it would be worth advocating for this change to retain our part time counselors and offer better student support. Any other ideas for advocating for this change?