Elementary-Counseling
Dinwiddie County Public Schools Counseling Mission
The mission of the Dinwiddie County Public Schools School Counseling Program is to provide a comprehensive, data driven counseling program that supports the academic, career, and social emotional development of all students. Through collaboration with families, educators, and the community, school counselors empower students to achieve success, develop positive character, and become productive, responsible citizens prepared for lifelong learning and future opportunities.
How the School Counselor Supports Students
The school counselor provides support to all students through classroom lessons, small groups, individual support, and collaboration with families and staff.
Academic Support
Students receive help with:
- Organization and study skills
- Goal setting
- Classroom success strategies
- Attendance support
- Problem solving and decision making
- Building positive learning habits
The counselor also works closely with teachers and families to identify barriers to learning and provide support when students need additional help.
Social Emotional Support
Students learn skills that help them:
- Build healthy friendships
- Manage emotions
- Solve conflicts
- Develop self confidence
- Practice empathy and kindness
- Strengthen communication skills
- Learn calming and self regulation strategies
Classroom lessons, small groups, and individual support are available based on student needs.
Career Awareness
Even in elementary school, students begin exploring their interests, strengths, and future goals.
Students participate in activities that encourage:
- Career exploration
- Leadership development
- Goal setting
- College and career awareness
- Discovering personal strengths and interests
Counseling Services Available
Individual Support
Short term individual counseling may include support for:
- Friendship concerns
- Anxiety or stress
- Attendance challenges
- Emotional regulation
- Academic concerns
- Self advocacy
- Behavioral support
Students may also participate in regular check-ins as needed.
Small Group Counseling
Small groups help students build skills and connect with peers experiencing similar challenges.
Groups may focus on:
- Friendship skills
- Self esteem
- Anxiety and stress
- Grief and loss
- Positive social interactions
- Behavior support
Classroom Guidance Lessons
The counselor teaches classroom lessons focused on:
- Character education
- Bullying prevention
- Empathy and kindness
- Emotional wellness
- Friendship skills
- Career exploration
- Positive decision making
Student Success Team (SST)
The Student Success Team works collaboratively with families and staff to support students experiencing academic, behavioral, attendance, or social emotional concerns.
The counselor helps coordinate supports and interventions to ensure students receive the assistance they need to be successful.
Confidentiality
Students are encouraged to talk openly and honestly during counseling sessions. Information shared is kept
confidential unless there is a concern involving safety or harm to the student or others. In those situations, appropriate adults and supports must be contacted to help keep everyone safe.
Helpful Community Resources
Emergency & Mental Health Support
- National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or Text 988
- Greater Reach Community Services Board Crisis Hotline: 804-862-8000
- Department of Social Services: 804-469-4524
- Department of Children’s Services: 804-469-5391
Family Support Services
- Salvation Army: 804-732-8449
- Western Heights Baptist Church Clothes Closet: 804-733-8172
Food Resources
- Dinwiddie Food Bank: 804-712-0190
- Carson Community Food Pantry: 804-861-2011
- Dinwiddie Churches Pantry: 804-732-3241
Referrals and Support
Students may be referred to the counselor by:
- Parents or guardians
- Teachers or staff members
- Administrators
- Self referral by students
Families are always encouraged to reach out with questions or concerns.