Learn how our counselors support students year-round

It's National School Counseling Week! This year’s theme is “Helping Students Thrive.” School counselors help students thrive in so many different ways. Our counselors support student social-emotional learning, they train on how to effectively support students during times of crisis, and they help equip students with the tools they need to help create positive environments for themselves and their peers. Join us in thanking the 29 school counselors in our district who ensure that every child is known, valued and supported. 

Here are some highlights about our counselors and their important work:

Staff Spotlight: Kaitlyn Johnson, VFE counselor 

Kaitlyn Johnson, counselor at Victor Falls Elementary, has demonstrated exceptional leadership in supporting students' social-emotional learning, particularly through small group interventions for K-5 students in need of intensive support. By using data and collaborating with staff, she developed targeted interventions to address student safety and bias, resulting in measurable growth in core Social Emotional Learning competencies and increased feelings of safety, especially among Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) students. Her dedication and strategic approach have been instrumental in fostering a positive, supportive environment that promotes the well-being and success of every child.

Crisis Support Team

Through their work with the Crisis Support Team, counselors Vicki Johnson (Tehaleh Heights Elementary), Mari Lysne (Lakeridge Middle School), and Dasha Berry (Bonney Lake High School) have significantly contributed to district-wide efforts. They led training sessions for all of our school counselors, providing valuable guidance on how to effectively support students during times of crisis. In addition to their individual roles, they serve as district leads, offering crucial support to schools in managing and navigating crisis situations. Their dedication and expertise are vital to the well-being of our students and the strength of our district’s response to challenging circumstances.

Teen Mental Health First Aid

Our high school counselors have done exceptional efforts in delivering Teen Mental Health First Aid to students. Through this course, our counselors are equipping students with essential tools to understand the fundamentals of mental wellness and empowering them to offer support to their peers. This initiative is a valuable contribution to fostering a supportive and informed school community, and we are grateful for their dedication to promoting mental health awareness and well-being among our students. Learn more about teen Mental Health First Aid at SBLSD.