Counselor’s Corner 

March 2026

Dear Families, 

We continue to be busy in the Counseling Department! In the elementary grades, we are continuing to focus on problem-solving skills and learning about responsibility, which is our Habit of Character word of the month. Taking responsibility is an important life skill that helps students build independence, confidence, and accountability. Throughout our lessons, students are practicing how to recognize problems without blame, think through possible solutions, and take responsibility for their choices and actions. Students know that they cannot begin to problem-solve until their bodies and minds are relaxed and ready. In our elementary classrooms, we often revisit the three parts of the brain and how they work together. This helps students understand that when big emotions take over, the thinking part of the brain needs time and strategies, like deep breathing, taking a break, or talking to a trusted adult, to settle down before effective problem solving can happen.

Our Let Grow Project pilot in 4th and 5th grade has been going very well. Students have been challenging themselves to try activities that move them out of their comfort zones and into their stretch zones. Many students have been taking on new responsibilities at home and in their communities. Some examples include baking or cooking for their families, going to the market to pick up items on their own, walking dogs, and trying other independent activities.

It has been wonderful to see students build confidence and pride as they take on new challenges. We plan to continue the program and are hopeful that we will be able to extend it into younger grades and middle school in the future, so stay tuned!

We are also excited to share that our comfort dog, Moochie, has been spending time connecting with students and staff. Moochie has been a wonderful addition to our school community, helping create moments of calm, connection, and joy throughout the day. She is quickly becoming quite popular with our students (and staff and parents!), and many look forward to seeing her around the building!

Ideas for building responsibility at home:

You can support your child’s growth in responsibility by giving them opportunities to do things independently. Try encouraging your child to:

• Help cook or prepare a meal
• Take responsibility for a household chore
• Run a small errand with supervision nearby
• Help care for a pet
• Try a new task that feels a little challenging

When children are trusted with real responsibilities, they build confidence, resilience, and important life skills. Encouraging them to step a little outside their comfort zone helps them grow into capable problem-solvers. 

As always, if you have any questions or would like to request any additional support for your students, please do not hesitate to reach out! 

All the best, 

Counselor Marisa