Counseling Connection
Better Together
Counseling Mission Statement
I am dedicated to collaborating with parents, faculty, and staff to develop and implement a holistic guidance program that nurtures our students' personal, social, and emotional well-being. Together, we will provide the support and resources needed to help every student thrive in their adult life. For more information about the counseling program, please visit here.
Character Award Recipients
Character Counts is a program aimed at promoting positive values and behaviors among students, ultimately contributing to a positive school climate. Each nine weeks, teachers will be asked to elect a student to be recognized for their outstanding character.
Our dedicated teachers elected a student they believe deserves the CARING award. This allowed us to shine a spotlight on those who go above and beyond in fostering a caring and supportive environment within our school community.
Below are the awesome students we celebrated for their wonderful acts of kindness and compassion that make our school a special place to learn and grow.
Random Acts of Kindness Week
During February 12-16th we celebrated Random Acts of Kindness Week (RAK Week). It was a week to teach, learn, and be intentional with how we show kindness to others. Check out some of our students who spread kindness by positing and delivering positive words of affirmation.
Locker Post-Its
Cutting Cards of Affirmation
Passing Out Positive Quotes
TU CASA Summer Program
About TU CASA
The TU CASA model is designed to allow students with intellectual disabilities to receive a true university experience while gaining the skills and knowledge needed to transition to independent adult lives. TU CASA values are to support all students in academic achievement, integrated and gainful employment, and inclusive lives in the community. Please see the flyers below for more information.
Counselor Lessons
Work Team
Friend Request is our monthly friendship learning event. Once per month all work team students are invited to participate in a learning workshop where students engage in discussions and skill build on techniques on how to make and keep a friend. Based from The Science of Marking Friends, written by Elizabeth Laugeson.
How to Hold a Good Conversation
Friend Request Monthly Workshop
Finding Common Interests
Volunteer/Rec Team
Friendship building skills are also being modeled in the volunteer classrooms. Below is a visual you may use with your child or young adult to help implement the skills in The Science of Making Friends.
Behavior Team
Sometimes we get mad!
What can I do?
Identify the appropriate skill
Reddix Little Bucks
For our school aged students we focused on how we all have different emotions through reading I'm a Rainbow by Dolly Parton. Please play the lyric video for your child.
Student Resources
Circle of Control
Use this visual to help your young adult focus their energy and attention on what they can change or affect, rather than wasting energy on things they can not control
Friendship Skills
Use the visual aids to encourage appropriate social skills for friendship building.
Coping Skills
Coping Skills Cards
Coping strategies are very useful and essential for dealing with life's challenges, stressors, and difficult emotions. They provide individuals with effective ways to manage and navigate the various ups and downs of life. Below is an example of some visual coping card that a student may use. If you would like me to create a personalized set based off of for your young adult's coping strategies, please let me know.
Grounding Technique
The "grounding technique" is a coping strategy used to help individuals stay present and mindful in the moment. It is often used to manage stress, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation. The technique typically involves focusing on your senses to anchor yourself in the present moment and reduce overwhelming thoughts or emotions.
Controlled Breathing
Breathing technique helps to activate the body's relaxation response and can be a quick way to calm your body and mind. It's important to focus on your breath and the counting to keep your mind from wandering to stressful thoughts. Practice this technique regularly with your child or young adult develop a sense of calm and relaxation that can be helpful in managing stress and anxiety. Below are some visual examples.
Community Resources
Meet the Counselor: Monica
I am here to support your child or young adult. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
Monica Leyva
(210)397-2548
X (formerly known as Twitter): @LeyvaCounselor