Counselor Connection - September

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.

• 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.

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.

September: Suicide Prevention Month

As a part of our commitment to student well-being and mental health awareness, the BMS Counseling Team puts on annual presentations during September for Suicide Prevention. The presentation looks slightly different at each grade level to be developmentally appropriate for all of our grade levels. The intent of the presentations is to provide valuable information and resources to help our students navigate mental health challenges. Together, we can foster a supportive environment for our students.

• 5th grade: Start with Hello Presentation 9/17
• 6th grade: Suicide Prevention Presentation 9/18
• 7th grade: Suicide Prevention Presentation 9/17

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!

Ms. Lajoie is the 504 case manager for 5th grade teams Chickadees, Black Bears, Puffins + 7th grade.

Ms. Martzial is the 504 case manager for 5th grade teams Lobsters & Sandpipers, + 6th 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.

The Counseling Team is planning activities for Bullying Prevention Month and Red Ribbon Week.

Lydia Martzial - General Education Social Worker

Shelly Lajoie - School Counselor

Kristin Carlson - Special Education Social Worker

Laurie Bruce - Resiliency, Resource & Truancy Coordinator