Counselors' Corner
October Newsletter
Week 1 Quote
Mindset of the Month
Focus on Strengths
What are you good at? When do you feel your strongest? Put yourself in situations where you can do the things you’re the best at and feel your strongest!
Explore Your Interests
What do you love to do? Whatever it is, do more of it and with more intensity. Read a different genre, listen to a new artist, consider going to a specialized camp for that sport.
Take a Stand
What you do must matter to you. Understand what your core values are and take a stand for your passions.
Be Authentic
Make sure your passions align with who you are and who you want to be. Be authentic to yourself, resist those pressures that pull you away from your core values, and pursue your passions!
No School for Students
Enjoy your 4-day weekend.
PSAT/SAT School Day
Wednesday
October 16
ALL 10th grade students will take the PSAT.
11th grade students that signed up for PSAT or SAT will test.
12th grade students that signed up for SAT will test.
9th grade students as well as [11th/12th grade] students who did not sign up for testing will work with advisory teachers on 7 Mindsets.
week 2 quote
October is NATIONAL Bullying Prevention Month
WEDNESDAY
OCTOBER 23
UNITY DAY
Wear and share orange uniting for kindness, acceptance and inclusion.
Week 3 Quote
week 4 quote
Upcoming Dates and deadlines
November 22-TSI at SFHS
A few words from our wellness counselors
A common unhealthy coping skill when dealing with trauma is substance abuse. It is extremely important that you be aware of the signs so that you identify and help your children.
Some common signs of substance use and abuse are:
PHYSICAL
- Changes in appetite
- Sudden weight gain or loss
- Eyes that appear glassy, bloodshot, unfocused, with constricted or dilated pupils
- Impaired coordination, slurred speech
- Overall sickly or haggard appearance
- Changes in sleeping patterns, such as insomnia or drowsiness
- Smelling of smoke, strong cologne, or drugs
- Memory problems
- Jittery or edginess
- Unusual or frequent coughing or vomiting
EMOTIONAL/MENTAL
- Sudden change in friends
- Poor academic and work performance
- Defensive secretive behavior
- More aggressive or argumentative behavior
- Unexplained spending habits
- Withdrawal from recreational and social activities
- Missing money or valuable possessions
- Missing bottles of alcoholic drinks and prescription medication
- Drug paraphernalia, including syringes, pipes, needles, burnt foil or spoons, liquor bottles and cigarette butts in and around the home
- Coming in late or sneaking out
- Changes in sleeping patterns
- Avoiding family functions
- Lying, making excuses
We know that sometimes it’s not easy to maintain regular and open communication with teens/tweens, however it is so vital that you try to talk to them about their feelings and these concerns. If you are noticing any of these symptoms occurring, please immediately attempt a dialogue with your child and then reach out to us. We can provide counseling at the school and refer to community support programs.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Wellness Counselors. We are available through phone or email. 409-927-3169