ESC Region 12 Counselor Connection
August 19, 2022 - Issue 1
Welcome back! It seems like we just finished catching our breath, and now it's time to start going again. This is an exciting, fun, and scary time for many students and parents. As we begin a new school year, I want to update you on a few changes to our monthly counselor newsletter. The Advisor will now be called Counselor Connection as it will include all aspects of school counseling. Jeni Janek and I have formulated this newsletter to provide information for all grade levels, and include not only secondary content, but topics applicable to all grade levels and school counselors such as SEL, MTSS, legislative changes, school-wide campaigns, HB 5, transcripts, trainings, etc. We are excited to get the school year going again and we are here for you. Just remember that you are the "WHY" for some students. Let's kick off the year with positive momentum and make it a great one. We've got lots of great sessions planned this year and we're looking forward to seeing everyone!
Jeni Janek, M.Ed., LPC
Education Specialist III/Coordinator
Youth Mental Health First Aid Instructor
ASK+ Trainer
True Colors Facilitator
Behavior Threat Assessment Trainer
Jennifer Serrato, M.Ed.
Education Specialist
Secondary Counselor
Tonya Ramos, M.Ed.
Education Specialist
Migrant Counselor
Terry "TJ" Arndt, M.Ed.
CTE Specialist
Counselor/Team Lead
David Baker, M.Ed., LPC-S
ESC 12 Clinical Mental Health Liaison
Educator Support & Guidance
ESC Region 12 offers professional development, expert support and guidance in meeting Title IV, Part A state and federal requirements, including student access to a well-rounded education, improving school conditions for student learning, and improving the use of technology to increase academic achievement and digital literacy of all students.
On this page you will find informative updates and high quality training to support counselors, public school health care providers, health educators, physical educators, school nurses and other school staff members designated to ensure the health and wellness of Region 12 children.
Learning and health are interrelated, and schools play a critical role in promoting the health and safety of our young people.
Click here to view student support contacts.
School Counselor Contact Information
It's That Time Again!
Red Ribbon Ordering & Distribution
Upcoming Sessions at ESC Region 12
We've got some really great sessions designed to support you this school year. You can simply click on any of the graphics to register. Scanning the QR code below (or clicking the graphic) will take you directly to a roster that lists upcoming trainings geared towards school counseling and student support.
College & Career Resources - Be Prepared!
If you need to update your Apply Texas Counselor Suite accessibility, please contact TJ Arndt at tarndt@esc12.net.
College Board & ACT
Click HERE for resources!
TEA Mental Health Database & Resources
2022-2023 Educational & Health Awareness Dates
SB 279 in Texas states that all students with school IDs must have the hotline number and the Crisis Text line number (741741) on the back. Here's a website with more activities to bring awareness: https://www.sprc.org/resources-programs/suicide-prevention-month-ideas-action
Click HERE to access several state and local required activities that overlap with Title IV, Part A Federal Programs. The LEA would have to meet certain requirements before using Title IV, Part A funds to supplement additional needs. Title IV, Part A Federal funds can not be used to meet state or local safety and mental health requirements. LEAs and ESCs can use the chart below to help with Title IV, Part A use of funds questions.
Visit Our Counseling Webpage!
ESC Region 12 Website Updates
We've added a few updates to the ESC Region 12 website. You can access the counseling webpage by clicking on Programs and Services.
ESC Region 12 Counseling Webpage
Feel free to check out the counseling webpage and other resources that are available.
My ESC Network
Did you know that you may already have access to free workshops and training? Don't forget to check out the My ESC Network to see if your district is apart of a membership co-op or SSA which gives you access to prepaid trainings.
Tips & Tools
School Counselor Year-at-a-Glance
Secondary Counselor Calendar
Need Additional Information?
Migrant Education Program
Migrant Counselor
o: 254-297-1167 | f: 254-666-0823
MTSS Newsletter
Contact Crystal Robinson for more information about Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS).
Education Specialist
o: 254-297-1217
Click HERE for the MTSS Newsletter.
ESC Region 12 Safe & Healthy Schools Newsletter
Education Specialist
o: 254-297-1166 | c: 979-324-1344
f: 254-666-0823 | e: hwheeler@esc12.net
Click HERE for the Safe & Health Schools Newsletter.
Each month, we'd like to highlight one of our very own Region 12 counselors for the amazing things that are being done to support students and teachers. We are thankful for the hard work that is put in each day and look forward to the great things that are happening! If you know a counselor who is deserving of recognition as our "ESC Region 12 Stellar Counselor of the Month", please contact jennifer.serrato@esc12.net or jjanek@esc12.net.
Yolanda Smith
Please Contact Us If You Have Questions!
Education Specialist | Coordinator, M.Ed., LPC
o: 254-297-1124 | f: 254-666-0823