Counselors' Quarterly
1st Semester Wrap-Up
We're Glad You're Here!
To kick off 2020, students will work on goal setting in advisory this month, which will be revisited on the last Thursday of February - May. Feel free to chat with your student regarding their goals and how they are working to achieve them this semester.
In Case You Missed It:
Want a copy of a resource shared? Reach out to Ms. James (emily.james@ankenyschools.org)
Social Media Resources for Families:
On January 21, 2020, Josh Lundahl and Emily James hosted "Social Media & Cyberbullying" for parents/guardians of middle school students. You can find a copy of their presentation by clicking here.
Additional resources can be found linked below or within the presentation above.
Upcoming Events:
February 27, 2020 - Parent-Teacher Conferences
February 27, 2020 - "Future Ready Students" presented by PRMS School counselors (at conferences).
- Access the informational flyer by clicking here.
- Learn more about Naviance by clicking here.
Due to Spring Break, there will not be a Family and Community Engagement Presentation during the month of March.
Social Media Resources Continued:
- Waituntil8th.org
- National Online Safety - Wake up Wednesday Infographics
- How Using Social Media Affects Teenagers (Article)
- Tips to Keep Teens Safe On Social Media (video below)
What's New at PRMS
Student-Led Groups
This year, we (PRMS) have been doing our best to find more ways for students to get involved in clubs/groups or other activities at or after school. Each month we continue to host Expeditions and partner with Community Engagement to offer courses. We have also encouraged students to start their own student-led groups or clubs. Students can start a group by reaching out to Kathleen Steffen, our Assistant Principal.
New student-led groups thus far include PRISM, Climate Club, and a Bible study group.
Staff Learning & Professional Development:
Brain Development:
This year, staff members have been spending time focusing on learning more about the adolescent and how their brains develop and function between 11-14 years old. Parents/families may find the resources provided to staff helpful as well.
- "H.E.L.P - How to Enjoy Living with a Preadolescent" By Judith Baenen
- Blog post: Mom describes tween son's brain
- Dana Siegel - "The Adolescent Brain" (video below)
Where Will the Counselors Be?
SCHEDULE/DATES BELOW UPDATED 2/10/2020:
Parent & Student Resources
If you or your child would like to report a concern:
- Please click here to access the TIPS Report Incident System, or
- Call the hotline: 963-7233 (963-SAFE).
LifeWorks
LifeWorks provides outpatient and school-based therapy services within the Ankeny and DSM metro area. Reach out to your school counselor for more information about LifeWorks, or access their website linked here.
Student Assistance Program (SAP) hosted by Employee and Family Resources (EFR)
Ankeny Community Schools contracts with Employee and Family Resources to provide a student assistance program for Ankeny students. PRMS utilizes this service for small group interventions, external counseling services, etc. Learn more about how you or your family can utilize the Student Assistance Program by reaching out to your student's counselor or accessing their website linked here.
Prairie Ridge Middle School
Website: https://www.ankenyschools.org/prairieridge
Location: 1010 Northwest Prairie Ridge Drive, Ankeny, IA, USA
Phone: 515-965-9705
Twitter: @AnkenyPRMS