Our Mission:

The Mission of the David E. Williams Counseling Program is to enable all middle school students 5-8 to experience educational success by providing guidance in the areas of academic, career, and personal/social development; counseling to help students overcome challenges that interfere with learning; and advocacy for an environment that supports high achievement for all students.  Through our comprehensive developmental model we will assist all students in acquiring the skills, knowledge, and aptitudes needed to become effective students, responsible citizens, productive workers and lifelong learners. 

Our Vision:

The vision of David E. Williams Middle School Counseling Department is to create a positive culture and community among students by involving every student in the guidance curriculum.  As a department we will provide a data driven program that includes individual counseling, small groups, large group forums and classroom programming to promote student success. No child will go unnoticed and every child will be involved in school beyond academics.  Thus, enhancing the child’s sense of self worth and promoting interaction with peers beyond academic classes.

ASCA Model:

We follow the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model as the framework for developing our school counseling program. Please visit the following website for more detailed information about the model: www.schoolcounselor.org/ and www.ascanationalmodel.org/.

Guidance & Counseling Services:

 How can your child set up a meeting with their counselor?

• They can go to the counseling office any time of day and see if their counselor is available
• Parent call
• Email from student, parent, teacher, friend….

Types of Counseling:

Individual Counseling- Students are encouraged to use the counseling office for any academic, emotional, or social need. Please note, this is short term counseling and is usually solution focused in nature. In some cases, long term or external counseling is recommended to parents.

Group Counseling- Academic support, study skills, friendship, divorce, anger management, attendance, and new student groups are just some of the many topics we may cover during small group counseling implemented by the school social worker. Group topics are chosen by grade level needs assessments.

Crisis Counseling- Student/Family Crisis and School/Community Crisis

Counseling Department Programs

● Building Favorable Friendships (BFF)
BFF encourages positive interactions between grade levels while fostering leadership, public
speaking skills, and empathy in our 8th grade students. BFF leaders assist with the Second Step SEL Lessons.

● ‘Caught Being’ Character Education Program
Each month a specific character trait is highlighted school wide. Students are encouraged to demonstrate that trait throughout the month. Students that are “caught” by staff exhibiting that trait can be issued a ticket. Each ticket gets entered to win monthly gift card awards.

● Smart Futures Career Readiness
Online career planning and portfolio program embedded in Computer Class.

● Team Leadership Core (TLC)
Students are nominated for TLC based on their embodiment of leadership characteristics. TLC members are involved in school wide initiatives and many of the counseling programs.

● PASS Survey
All students complete the Pupil Attitudes to Self and School survey. A schoolwide initiative, PASS allows us to confidentially detect and proactively address possible barriers to student learning.

● Young Environmentalist
The year-long program brings knowledge and awareness of environmental issues to our school while encouraging our students to make small changes that yield powerful results. Activities include monthly discussion of environmental issues and recyclable collection.

● New Student Breakfast
A welcome breakfast is held for all students new to D.E.W. Students learn about each other and what school everyone previously attended. Prizes are awarded and students are given the opportunity to sign up for new student groups.

● New Student Buddies
New students are matched with current students to help them transition smoothly to a new school. Buddies help with building tours, schedules, and introductions.

● Kindness Week
Various activities in February focused on inspiring kindness in our school and reminding us that small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

● MMTSS Mindfulness
Staying in the present moment gives you more awareness of what's happening in your mind and body. Small group lessons focusing on Mindfulness are offered on Thursdays during PLT.

● Walk ‘N Talk PLT
An opportunity to get some physical activity while interacting with the counselors and peers.

● Red Ribbon Week
With sponsorship by the National Family Partnership, National Red Ribbon Week raises awareness and unites our school to make a commitment to a drug free community.

● 96.1 Stuff-a-Bus Toy Drive
Our school participates in 96.1 Kiss FM Stuff-a-Bus Toy Drive benefiting Marines Toys for Tots Program.

● Kindness Week
Various activities in February focused on inspiring kindness in our school and reminding us that small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

Student Assistance Program