Guidance

Guidance Services

Welcome to the "Counselor's Corner" at West End Elementary!

Hello, my name is Jessica Smith and I am the guidance counselor at West End Elementary. I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education and a Masters Degree plus 30 hours in Counseling Education. I have previously worked in Greenville County, where I taught in an elementary school and have since been working as a counselor. Please feel free to call or email me with any questions or concerns you may have about your child.

Jessica Smith
397-2504
jessicasmith@pickens.k12.sc.us

Guidance Department-What is it?

I utilize the four components of the South Carolina Comprehensive School Guidance Program at West End Elementary. These components include: guidance curriculum, individual planning, responsive services, and system support.

Guidance Curriculum-Classroom Guidance

I will visit classrooms once each nine weeks. During these scheduled lessons we will discuss a variety of material intended to help students in the areas of academics, social issues, and career decisions.

Individual Planning-Individual Counseling

I will provide individual counseling to students that request to speak with me or students that are referred by a teacher or parent. Strategies will be decided based on what each particular student's needs are. This service will be provided on a short term basis. If the student need services that are beyond the realm of a school counselor, outside resources will be suggested.

Responsive services-Small Group Counseling

Small group counseling will be provided for students that might need a little extra attention on certain topics. Small groups will usually consist of about six to eight students and the counselor. The topics will be decided as needs arise. Common group topics are:

  • Divorce

  • Anger Management

  • Friendship and Self Esteem

  • Grief and Loss

  • Study Skills

System support- consultation

The school counselor, teachers, and parents work together to support children. As an elementary counselor, I will work with parents, teachers, and administrators, to:

  1. exchange and gather information

  2. provide recommendations

  3. discuss parenting concerns

  4. provide information, materials, referral assistance

  5. address student needs

  6. promote a positive learning environment