Guidance
LessonsI visit classrooms on a weekly or bi-weekly basis to teach guidance lessons to all of our students. These lessons are planned in a sequential way to help promote social, emotional, and academic growth of our students. Our lessons will address such topics as: problem solving, social skills, goal setting, communication skills, self confidence, and positive character development.
Our character emphasis this year will include the following six pillars of character. These six pillars are also reflected in our Clarkston Cougar Pledge.
To learn more about the six pillars of character and get some ideas to reinforce these at home, visit the Character Counts Coalition on the web.
Elementary schools in Tyler will be using "Rachel's Challenge" as part of our character education. This is a program developed after the inspiring life and writings of Rachel Scott ,and really emphasizes the importance of kindness and compassion in our communities. In her writings, Rachel challenged her readers to do five things listed below. These lessons will be infused throughout our guidance sessions and our school community:
A few powerful quotes from Rachel...
"I have this theory that if one person can go out of their way to show compassion, then it will start a chain reaction of the same. People will never know how far a little kindness can go."
"Don't let your character change color with your environment. Find out who you are and let it stay its true color."
"My codes may seem like a fantasy that can never be reached, but test them for yourself, and see the kind of effect they have in the lives of people around you. You just may start a chain reaction."
I am available to meet with students on an individual basis to discuss situations and events that are affecting them at school. Counseling sessions are confidential, usually are only for brief periods - 2 to 5 sessions, and typically center on problem solving.
For most of my counseling I use the "Choice Theory" model. It states that our behaviors we choose are our best attempts to satisfy our five basic needs: survival, power, love and belonging, freedom, and fun. Our actions and thoughts are within our direct control so our problem solving generally focuses on developing better thoughts and choosing more appropriate actions to effectively meet our needs. These needs are best met through cultivating positive, meaningful relationships.
School counselors are not therapists and do not provide therapy or diagnosis. If this is something you feel your child needs, I do have a list of community resources than can help you.
Small groups are offered to students throughout the school year. This is a way for me to work with a number of students at the same time. We will typically meet in my office during lunch and work as we eat. The "Lunch Bunch" groups may focus on specific topics such as friendship skills, goal setting and achievement, managing emotions, and other topics.
Email Mr. Lawson with any questions and/or to be included on the Counselor's Email list to receive occasional updates, tips, and helpful articles.