Counseling Department

Elementary School Students' Developmental Needs

The elementary years are a time when students begin to develop their academic self-concept and feelings of competence and confidence as learners. They are beginning to develop decision-making, communication and life skills, as well as character values. It is also a time when students develop and acquire attitudes toward school, self, peers, social groups and family.

Meeting the Need

Elementary school counselors are educators uniquely trained in child development, learning strategies, self-management and social skills, who understand and promote success for today’s diverse students. They implement a school counseling program to support students through this important developmental period. The program provides education, prevention and intervention activities, which are integrated into all aspects of children’s lives. The program teaches knowledge, attitudes and skills students need to acquire in academic, career and social/emotional development, which serve as the foundation for future success. Elementary school counselors also collaborate with teachers and parents on early identification and intervention of children’s academic and social/emotional needs, which is essential in removing barriers to learning and developing skills and behaviors
critical for academic achievement.

"Information from American School Counselors Association, 2023"

School Counseling Services at OPE:

Classroom Guidance Lessons

Small Group Counseling

Solution-Focused Individual Counseling

Consultation and Collaboration with teachers, parents and administrators

Student Support Services: 504 Plans, MTSS Processes, and Gifted Testing