Smithton Guidance Department Contacts

573-214-3263

Smithton Guidance Program

The Missouri Comprehensive Student Needs Survey is given to students, faculty and parents every five years to determine guidance priorities and to help build the guidance program.  The following priorities, as well as program activities used to address priorities, are a result of the 1998-1999 assessment:

1. Understanding/Accepting Self -- Middle school is a crucial time for establishing positive self-esteem and identity.  This is accomplished through individual counseling sessions, small group activities as needed, and a self-esteem unit in FACS class.

2. Understanding and Getting Along With Others -- The middle school program should provide an opportunity for students to establish healthy relationships through active communication and problem solving.  Taking responsibility for one’s own behavior is stressed.  Activities include a harassment unit, which includes video, discussion and other activities, individual counseling sessions, a FACS unit on working with peers, and small group activities as needed.

3. Improving Basis Skills and Study Skills -- Helping students to reach their academic potential is a key to developing self-worth and succeeding in society.  Study skills are addressed through content areas and in academic lab throughout the year.  All students are instructed on and required to utilize agenda books for assignment organization.

4. Making Decisions -- Learning effective decision-making skills is the foundation for life planning and preparation.  Students experience a decision-making unit in FACS, and teachers address this need in various units throughout the school year.

5. Planning and Developing Careers -- Career exploration in an ongoing process.  Activities at the middle school level help students consider their interests, skills and goals in planning for their future.  Students see a career path video, experience 2-3 days of a counselor-directed unit on careers, and are introduced to Career Future software.

Outreach Counselor

The Outreach Counselor meets with students who are experiencing problems at home, in school or in the community. Problems are varied but may include family conflict, depression, grief/loss, anger management and alcohol/drug use by student or family members. Students’ emotional struggles can interfere with their education, and counseling in school can sometimes help.

Students can be referred to the Outreach Counselor by teachers, administrators, Care Team, parents or by students themselves. The Outreach Counselor is a licensed, professional counselor who is in the building two days a week to meet with referred students.