Counselor Connection - May 2026

News & Resources from the Counseling Team at BMS

Welcome to our Newsletter

The Counseling Team at Biddeford Middle School is an integral part of daily school life. We encourage you to reach out to us anytime! We are here to support EVERY STUDENT at BMS.

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Counseling Team Basics

Did you know?

Students have access to a google form called the "See a Counselor Form" that they can fill out independently if they'd like to talk to one of us.
We hand out food bags every Friday - any student is able to take one home if their family needs extra support with food at home.

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What we've been up to recently...

The Counseling Team plans lessons and presentations throughout the year. Some of these efforts are surrounding nation wide themes, and some are planned as prevention and/or a response to challenges we are seeing at BMS.

April:
- 5th grade: Sexual Abuse Awareness and Prevention Classroom Lessons
- 7th grade: Dose of Reality Substance Abuse Awareness Presentation

Resources for Families

Talking to adolescents and teens: Starting the conversation | Mental Health America

The first step in starting a conversation is to choose a good time. It’s really important to make space to be together without an agenda or pressure. Conversation tends to flow best when it naturally occurs. Consider bringing up the topic of mental health when doing chores, cooking, hanging out, or in the car. Be aware of changes in your child’s willingness to engage with you. If they are busy, or having a bad day you may want to wait until they are less preoccupied.

mhanational.org

What is Mental Health? | COLOSSAL QUESTIONS

Changing Thoughts with an AI Assistant

Feeling stuck? Our artificial intelligence-based virtual assistant can help you reframe your negative thoughts and practice hopeful thinking.

screening.mhanational.org

Movement-for-mental-health.pdf

drive.google.com

Attendance & Truancy

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Did you know that showing up really does add up?

Regular attendance helps students feel connected to their school and peers, builds healthy relationships, and grows confidence. Being in class consistently supports academic success and keeps students on a strong path toward graduation. If you need support with helping your child feel connected to school, please reach out to Laurie Bruce, our Resiliency, Resource, and Truancy Coordinator. Every day counts!

504s & IEPs - Friendly Reminders

Who to contact about a student's 504 or IEP

Ms. Lajoie is the 504 case manager for 5th grade teams Chickadees & Black Bears + 6th grade.

Ms. Martzial is the 504 case manager for 5th grade teams Lobsters & Sandpipers, + 7th grade.

You will be contacted by either Ms. Martzial or Ms. Lajoie to schedule your child's annual 504 meeting when it is coming due. If you have a question or concern regarding your student's 504, please contact either Ms. Martzial or Ms. Lajoie.

If you have a question about your student's IEP, please contact their special education case manager or the BMS special education coordinator, Colleen Doiron.