Fall 2013 post #2

Blog Prompt:  Have you had to go to your school counselor to assist in a situation?  What was your experience in working with the counselor?  Were you able to get the student or parent the resources they needed?  If you have not had an experience with a school counselor, after hearing this webinar…what scares you the most about the topics discussed?  What thoughts did you have reflecting on the content of this webinar?

**Remember not to use identifying information such as student names, etc.

My counselor is a good friend of mine and I have had to work with him on numerous occasions. Most of my professional interactions with him revolve around student behavior. For example, I have a student that does zero work, is a constant distraction in class, and is defiant to authority. This student lives with his grandfather. His grandfather is rarely home and is not really active in making sure his freshman grandson is accountable for his school work and behavior. The grandfather never picks up the phone when I attempt to call home. 

The counselor and I have attempted to mentor this student. We have shown the student the importance of school, and creating strong relationships with students and faculty. We have shown him different career opportunities. We have tried to get him excited about his future and how school fits into the picture.

Unfortunately, our attempts have proven ineffective. The student has continued to struggle in the school setting, academically and behaviorally. He will likely be moved to our alternative high school next semester.