Counselor's Corner

Happy October! This month's counseling program and SEL class focus is Responsibility. One way to define Responsibility is "taking action and understanding the impact of our choices." Taking action can mean doing the right thing or completing the tasks you have been assigned. Understanding the impact of our choices means that our actions matter. Positive and responsible actions can help people and irresonspible actions can hurt others.

Responsibility is 1 of 3 traits we will focus on throughout the year that helps students Be Strong. During SEL class, students will be developing skills like focusing, organizing, and goal-setting. 

While practicing Responsbility this month, students will be focusing on flexible thinking. Students will work on their ability to adapt to new situations and challenges by finding multiple solutions to different problems.

One of the ways we will be practicing these flexible thinking skills is by setting TOP Goals. TOP stands for...

• Target: Visualize your gaol and think about why this is important fo ryou.
• Obstacles: Plan for challenges. If _____ gets in the way, then what can you do?
• Plan: Create 3 actions steps you will need to take to complete your gaol.

This technique helps students be more Responsbile by clarifying different types of goals and taking thoughtful actions to achieve them.

If you have questions about the SEL/counseling program's PurposeFull People curriculum, please contact me:

Rebecca Smith, School Counselor

rebecca.smith@lakotaonline.com