Each individual, regardless of their abilities, has the right to be respected, embraced, and provided with opportunities to thrive. Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month serves as a profound reminder of these principles, emphasizing the value, rights, and aspirations of those with developmental disabilities.

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is a month-long observance that brings attention to the varied and unique experiences of individuals with developmental disabilities. It’s a time to celebrate their achievements, advocate for their rights, and promote understanding and inclusivity within society.

As a school counselor, you play a vital role in supporting students' mental health and well-being. However, it can be easy to get caught up in the demands of the job and forget to take care of yourself. That's why we are here to remind you of the importance of self-care, especially in the new year.

It's important to take care of yourself, especially during stressful times. One way to do that is by practicing mindfulness. Just take a few minutes each day to focus on the present moment and clear your mind. This can help reduce your stress levels and improve your overall well-being.

3/19/24 - Safe & Healthy Schools Series & Office Hours - 338202

3/20/24 - Youth Mental Health First Aid - 338007

With the 80/20 requirement for school counselors in Texas, it can be difficult to navigate the requirements of SB 179. We designed a "Counselor Time Tracking Reporting & District Analysis Checklist (based on the law) to help you with this process.

Please click HERE to learn more about it and print/download for your own use. You may make aa copy of the Google doc for your own use.

We also have a School Counselor Requirement & Resource Document that shows all the times that a school counselor is listed in statute (Texas Administrative Code and Texas Education Code). This was designed to help school counselors know and see when they are listed in statute.

The website offers a wealth of resources to help implement the 5th edition of the Texas Model for School Counseling, including templates and lessons. Be sure to bookmark and visit frequently.

The Student Heroes program recognizes Texas public school students in prekindergarten through high school who do an outstanding volunteer service that benefits their fellow students, schools, or their communities. One student from each of the 15 State Board of Education (SBOE) districts is recognized for this award.

Cole Simmons Memorial Scholarship 2024

Eligibility Requirements: Must be a graduating senior and who plans to pursue a career in the Fire Academy, EMT, Paramedic, or Police Academy

Submit the following:

Short essay explaining how this scholarship will help you to

achieve your future career goals.

Return to the school counselor by Friday April 12, 2024. All applications can be emailed to Christa Simmons at csimmons@connally.org

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program scholarship is an achievement-based scholarship awarded to students in their final year of high school. Students are recognized for their capacity to lead and serve, as well as their commitment to making a significant impact on their schools and communities. With the 36th class in 2024, the Foundation has provided over 6,900 Coca-Cola Scholars with more than $84 million in educational support. 150 Coca-Cola Scholars are selected each year to receive this $20,000 scholarship.

https://www.coca-colascholarsfoundation.org/apply/#:~:text=Eligibility%20Requirements,-Applicants%20must%20be&text=Expecting%20to%20receive%20high%20school,GPA%20in%20high%20school%20coursework

The Greater Waco Aerospace Alliance is awarding scholarships to outstanding students in Region 12 pursuing a degree in aviation/aerospace or a related engineering program from Texas State Technical College – Waco, Baylor University, McLennan Community College, Texas Tech University at Waco or Tarleton State University at Waco. The minimum amount per scholarship will be $1,000.

NOTE: Priority consideration will be given to students of veterans and active military personnel as well as students planning to remain in the Greater Waco area following graduation.

This month's Stellar Counselor is Sharon Hlavenka from West ISD! Sharon is a school counselor who personally tries to take care of her students and staff, especially when they experience challenges or difficulties that go beyond the classroom. We are appreciative of her efforts at West ISD and are celebrating her efforts for March 2024. Please join us in recognizing Mrs. Hlavenka.

Each month, we'd like to highlight one of our Region 12 Counselors for the fantastic things being done to support students and teachers. We are thankful for the hard work put in each day and look forward to the great things happening! If you know a counselor deserving of recognition as our "ESC Region 12 Stellar Counselor of the Month", please get in touch with jennifer.serrato@esc12.net or jjanek@esc12.net.

If you need to update your Apply Texas Counselor Suite accessibility, please contact me at jennifer.serrato@esc12.net.

Education Service Center Region 12

o: 254-297-1124 | f: 254-666-0823

e: jjanek@esc12.net

Education Service Center Region 12

o: 254-297-1172 | f: 254-297-2960

e: jennifer.serrato@esc12.net

Education Service Center Region 12

o: 254-297-1137 | f: 254-297-2960

e: becky.lane@esc12.net

Contact Tonya Ramos for more information on the Migrant Education Program and McKinney Vento services.

Coordinator of Migrant Services & McKinney Vento

o: 254-297-1167 | f: 254-666-0823

e: tramos@esc12.net

Contact TJ Arndt for more information CTE services.

Coordinator of CTE

o: 254-297-1199 | c: 254-313-7225 |

e: tarndt@esc12.net

Contact Heather Wheeler for more information about Safe & Health Schools.

Coordinator of School Safety

o: 254-297-1166 | c: 979-324-1344

f: 254-666-0823 | e: hwheeler@esc12.net

Contact Monica Johnson for more information about transition.

Educational Specialist

o: 254-297-1158 | f: 254-297-2961

e: monica.johnson@esc12.net

Contact Crystal Robinson for more information about Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS).

Education Specialist

o: 254-297-1217

crobinson@esc12.net