The Wildcat Wellness

Wernli Counseling Department Newsletter-October 2024

A message from your counselors

Wernli Parents,

We are thrilled to kick off the new school year with enthusiasm and excitement! It's a joy to reconnect with familiar faces and extend a warm welcome to those joining our school community for the first time. As your counselors, we are here to support you in making this year a successful and fulfilling experience.

Ms. Garza & Mrs. Barrett

What's Happening in Guidance?

September and October Guidance

Guidance lessons at [Your School Name] are vital sessions led by our school counselors, focusing on academic success, career exploration, personal-social development, and emotional well-being. These interactive sessions equip students with essential skills and knowledge to thrive academically and navigate life's challenges confidently.

Our first guidance was our 'Howdy" lesson. During this lesson we were able to introduce ourselves to the students and how we support all students on campus. Students were able to participate on some interactive activities within their Schoology account. Students also learned about how to self refer if needed.

Calming strategies: Our second lesson focused on safety during lockdown drills. We were able to provide students with some helpful calming strategies that will help them feel calm when they have big emotions.

Respect: During the third lesson we delved into the importance of this fundamental value in fostering positive relationships and creating a supportive school community. We read a book titled "Lunch from Home". Students engaged in discussions and activities that highlighted ways to demonstrate respect towards themselves and others, and our community. Through these lessons we empowered students to cultivate a culture of kindness and understanding, laying the foundation for a respectful learning environment where everyone can thrive.

Friendship/Boundaries: In our recent guidance lesson featuring the book "The Not-So-Friendly Friend," we explored the complexities of friendships and the importance of setting healthy boundaries. Through this engaging session, students learned about recognizing supportive friendships versus those that may not be as beneficial. We discussed strategies for maintaining positive relationships while respecting personal boundaries and differences. These lessons aim to empower students to navigate social interactions confidently and build meaningful connections based on mutual respect and understanding.

Digital Citizenship Week

Digital Citizenship Week is observed October 21st-25th. It is an annual event aimed at promoting responsible and safe use of technology among students, educators, and communities. It typically includes activities, lessons, and discussions focused on topics such as online safety, digital literacy, cyberbullying prevention, ethics in digital communication, and the importance of respecting intellectual property.

Red Ribbon Week

5th Grade Middle School Transition

Mrs. Barrett, our fifth grade counselor will be attending a meeting to receive updated information on middle school transitions. More information to come!

Military Kids Club

On October 3rd, we had our first Military Kids club meeting. The students were able to connect with one another and brainstorm different favorites that will be included in our welcome packet that is given to new to Wernli families. This helps students acclimate to the area and gives families new places to visit around the city. Additionally, they created pennants about themselves that will soon be displayed in the hallway to showcase our members of the club.

Home-School Connection

October is National Bullying Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness and promote kindness, inclusion, and empathy. This month serves as a reminder that everyone plays a role in preventing bullying and creating safe spaces where people feel valued and respected. Whether in schools, workplaces, or online, we can all contribute to a culture of kindness by standing up against bullying, supporting those affected, and fostering environments where differences are celebrated. Together, we can help create a world where everyone feels safe, heard, and supported. Let's take action and make kindness the norm!

Important Dates to Remember

10/09: Apex Fun Run

10/09: Student Panorama Survey 3rd-5th grade students only

10/10: Military Kids Club Sonic Fundraiser 5pm-8pm

10/16: Unity Day-Wear Orange

10/18: Counselor pop-up during morning drop-off

10/21-10/25-Digital Citizenship Week

10/28-11/01-Red Ribbon Week

Books to Read at Home

Additional Resources

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