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WHO ARE WE?

The Gainesville Middle School Department of Counseling Services is pleased to offer the services and expertise of three licensed professional counselors. The Gainesville Middle School counselors are specially trained professionals who can assist you and your student as you make important academic, personal/social and career decisions.

Each counselor is trained in both education and counseling, allowing them to function as a facilitator between parents, teachers and the student in matters concerning the student’s goals, abilities and any areas needing improvement.  All are certified to work as counselors in all levels-from elementary school on up through high school and beyond.

In order to stay abreast of the most current trends and methodologies associated with educating today’s students, the Gainesville Middle School counselors actively participate in a number of  professional development activities and workshops throughout the year.  As members of the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), Gainesville Middle School counselors are equipped to provide a wide range of specialized services.

OUR SERVICES

At Gainesville Middle School, each counselor is  responsible for serving all students, assisting with their academic, career and personal/social  development. 

As your child’s advocate, your assigned counselor is charged with the task of working with administrators, teachers, community agencies and parents in helping  him/her learn and develop to his/her highest potential

At Gainesville Middle School, we are pleased to   provide you and your child the following services:

· Individual Counseling

· Group Counseling

· Group Guidance

· Guidance Curriculum

· Student Appraisal

· Referral

· Consultation

· Coordination

THE PARTNERSHIP

As a parent, it is vital that you understand the role of your child’s school counselor.  It is even more important that you establish and maintain a mutual trust and ongoing communication with that counselor.  At Gainesville Middle School, we understand that  a good education program requires a strong partnership between the school, the parents and the students.  Everyone must play an active role in the process. However, in order for your school counselor to best serve you and your student, it is important that as a parent, you consider these four tips:

· Keep an open mind– Your child’s school counselor is a valuable  resource with expertise in understanding your child  in a way that can be helpful to you

· Respect your child-  While it is important to have goals for your child, it is vital to respect the goals he or she sets.

· Take control– Your positive experiences with the school counselor can benefit other parents.  Consider working on a committee or project that would generate awareness and encourage more involvement with the school counselor.

· Get involved with school-Remember that as the adult in the family, you have ultimate control over decisions concerning your child’s education.