Counseling Department

As a school counseling department at Mountain Island Charter School, we will strive to meet the academic, career, and social/emotional needs of each K-12 student within our school community. We will support the leadership development of our students by promoting positive character values and service. We will lead by example and encourage students and staff to do the same. We will assist in promoting and fostering excellence, wisdom, integrity, and perseverance within our students to help them be successful in a complex and diverse society. We will assist in keeping Mountain Island Charter School a safe and positive school environment accessible to all students enrolled. We will advocate for our students and collaborate with all stakeholders to provide the best opportunities for growth and development. We will utilize various delivery methods including classroom instruction, small groups, and individualized counseling. We will create, analyze, and utilize data to continually improve the counseling program to best suit the needs of our unique student body.

We have two elementary counselors, Mrs. Blau and Mrs. Huneycutt, who play an important role in helping young students grow academically, socially, and emotionally. They provide guidance with problem-solving, help develop positive behaviors, and teach skills like cooperation and emotional regulation. Both work closely with students, teachers, and parents to create a supportive learning environment, offering strategies for managing feelings, building friendships, and resolving conflicts. By fostering a sense of self-confidence and belonging, elementary school counselors help set a strong foundation for future success in school and life.

 

MICS uses The Second Step SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) Program. This is a comprehensive, research-based curriculum designed to help students develop essential social-emotional skills. It focuses on areas such as self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, decision-making, and interpersonal communication. By providing structured lessons and activities, the program aims to create a positive school climate, reduce bullying, and improve academic success through the cultivation of emotional intelligence and positive behaviors in students.

 

Parents and caregivers are a child’s first and most important teachers, and play a vital role in their social, emotional, and academic development. The child’s classroom teachers are here to support parents and caregivers in this, and the Second Step family of programs is one of the tools they’re using. Second Step programs combine discussions with fun activities and family resources. The programs help children learn social-emotional skills such as responsible decision-making, working together to solve problems, managing strong emotions, and getting along with others. These skills can help children succeed academically and socially. Click the Second Step picture above to learn more!