Wendy the Counselor

Hello parents and caregivers!

I hope you had a wonderful first week of school! I wanted to introduce myself and let you put a face to a name (although...now my hair is pink because, well, why not?) I am excited to join Byron Union District as your new elementary school counselor at both Discovery Bay and Timber Point. Ok, the important things--I have 2 dogs, 3 cats, and 1 bearded dragon! I also have over 25 years of combined experience in school-based therapy and mental health, solution-focused interventions, crisis and trauma-related behaviors, behavioral technician ABA training, social work, teaching, foster care, substance use treatment, etc. I look forward to using my professional experience, while working to build strong and effective partnerships with you all. Don't hesitate to reach out. If I don't know the answer, I will look it up!

My schedule is the following:

• Timber Point: Mondays and Thursdays, and every other Wednesday beginning with Wednesday, August 2, 2023 (Rm #42)
• Discovery Bay: Tuesdays and Fridays, and every other Wednesday beginning with Wednesday, August 9, 2023 (Rm #19)

* Please Note: I do not have a phone yet so please Email me at: wbond@byron.k12.ca.us

I have begun individual counseling and will begin social and emotional learning groups soon! What are these groups about? This is where kids can complement their classroom learning by strengthening and building new skills, such as cooperation and conflict resolution/ problem-solving skills, friendship club (social skills, anxiety), character education and good citizenship/ leadership club, great big emotions, challenging behaviors and self-regulation skills, etc. I will also be hosting a super fun, "lunch bunch" club that encourages cooperation, exploration, collaboration, good sportsmanship and good attitudes!

**Research has shown that Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and Skill-Building enhances Academics, revealing an increase in attitude towards school, increased achievement scores that continues to support their success through college and employment. It also reduces anxiety, stress, and misbehavior. It's good for their brains as well as their well-being!

If you are interested in any of these groups or have ideas for me, please e-mail me. I will be starting the groups and lunch bunch club, soon!