Counselor Connection

Welcome to our Newsletter

The Counseling Team at Biddeford Middle School is an integral part of daily school life - but families aren't always in the know of what our support looks like at BMS.

We're hoping to share more of our monthly happenings and helpful resources here. We also encourage you to reach out to us anytime!

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.
We are here to support EVERY STUDENT at BMS.

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.

March 2-6: Inclusion Week
March 4: Spread the Word Day

How to Talk to Your Friends About the R-Word: A Guide for Students and Parents

“Stop being retarded and get your head in the game.”You wince as you hear your friend Chase say that to you after missing a shot while playing Fortnite.You nervously laugh off Chase’s outburst, and say you’ll get them next time, but something doesn’t feel right to you.Your whole life, you’ve seen how upset words like that make your younger brother, who has an intellectual disability, feel.You’ve seen how much that word still hurts him. You thought that word was finally going away, but more and more, you hear that word being used.Plus, Chase is popular with everyone at school because his mom and dad buy him new stuff all the time. He went to your birthday. His mom hangs out with your mom.What should you do? Spend more than 5 minutes online and you’ll see what many have already noticed: the R-word (retard(ed)) is gaining popularity. From political figures using it in public to major blockbusters like Deadpool & Wolverine sneaking it into the mainstream, the R-word is being used at an alarming frequency. Celebrities like Elon Musk, President Donald Trump, reality star Caitlyn Jenner, and musician Drake have all openly and unapologetically continued to use the word to belittle others.

archive.spreadtheword.global

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!

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.