Bothwell Counselor Corner

Celina ISD focuses on our five guiding principles: Community, Excellence, Innovation, Leadership and Stewardship. Each month we will highlight a principle, along with a character strength.

For October, our focus will be on courage and leadership. Building courage within ourselves is a key component of leadership.

A student recently asked me, "How can one be a leader on a daily basis?" My response is that we have several opportunities within our day. A leader is kind, shows respect with their words and actions, and—most importantly—is humble. Leaders do not seek recognition, but instead focus on lifting up others. Just like in The Wizard of Oz, where the Cowardly Lion sought courage and the Tin Man wished for a heart, we learn that courage and leadership go hand in hand—because it takes a true heart to be a leader.

Texas school counselors follow the Texas School Model for Counseling. You can access the link below to learn more about our program guidelines. All lessons that are presented follow the required TEKS to ensure student success.

https://www.celinaisd.com/our-departments/counseling-wellness

Our October guidance lessons will focus heavily on making healthy choices, perfectly aligning with Red Ribbon Week and Digital Citizenship Awareness Week. This month, we are teaching our students how to protect themselves and their digital footprints by knowing when to pause, reflect, and speak up.

🛑 Grades K-2: "Stop and Ask First!"

Students will learn that while many things around us keep us healthy, some can be harmful if used incorrectly.

• Core Concept: Medication helps our bodies heal, but it must only be given by a trusted adult.
• Key Resource: We are partnering with the North Texas Poison Control Center to teach students to identify safe vs. unsafe substances.
• Digital Connection: This rule applies online too! Students will practice the habit of asking a trusted adult before clicking on a link, downloading a game, or interacting online.
• Educational Standards:
  • TEKS Strand 5 & 6: Distinguish between the safe use of medication by an adult and harmful substances; identify trusted adults who can help in unsafe situations.
  • ASCA Mindset 1 & Behavior SMS 9: Supporting the belief in the development of the whole self (physical well-being) and demonstrating the ability to say "no" to behaviors that endanger physical health.

🗣️ Grades 3-4: The Power of "NO"

Students are discovering that "NO" is a powerful boundary word that keeps them safe, healthy, and in control.

• Core Concept: It takes true courage to say no when faced with peer pressure, or when someone offers something unfamiliar. If a student feels unsafe or unsure about an action or a substance, they must say no and immediately seek a trusted adult.
• Digital Connection: Students will learn how to say "no" to digital boundary-crossing, such as cyberbullying, sharing passwords, or interacting with strangers in online gaming lobbies.
• Educational Standards:
  • TEKS Strand 5 & 6: Describe strategies for health prevention, personal refusal skills, and digital safety when avoiding harmful substances or situations.
  • ASCA Mindset 2 & Behaviors SS 8, SMS 1: Building self-confidence to succeed, demonstrating advocacy for self and others, and taking responsibility for personal actions and boundaries.

    
    

    
    

In a world shaped by screens, social media, and AI, parents often feel overwhelmed by questions about screen limits, online safety, and healthy development. Parenting in the Digital Age is your practical, no-nonsense guide to raising responsible, tech-savvy, and well-rounded children. Packed with real-life strategies, this book helps you confidently embrace technology while maintaining safety, balance, and meaningful family connections.

To partner with our families, parenting resources and presentations will be offered throughout the year. More information on topics and dates will be shared in the coming weeks. Please reach out if you have a topic you would like for us to cover.

I will share a monthly newsletter that will highlight our guiding principle, character focus and parenting tips throughout the year. It is my hope that you will find them helpful and feel connected with your child's learning.

I encourage to reach out anytime if you have questions, concerns or a need. I am here to serve our Bothwell community.

Phone: 469-742-9108

Email: tiffanyragland@celinaisd.com