The Counselor Backstage Pass

Dear Parents & Guardians,

We are excited to kick off a new school year! As your junior high school counselors, we are here to support all students academically, socially, and emotionally as they transition into a successful and fulfilling year. Whether your child is new to junior high or returning for another great year, we’re here to help every step of the way.

IMPORTANT DATES:

• Aug. 28 Early Out

• Sep. 1 Labor Day (no school)

• Sep. 19 Early Out

Beginning/End of 6 week dates:

• August 13th- first day of school

• September 19th- end of 1st 6 weeks

1. Counselor Classroom Visits
We’re visiting classrooms this month to introduce ourselves and talk about what a school counselor does, how students can reach out to us, and how we can support them throughout the year.

2. Building Connections
The first few weeks of school can be a big adjustment. We’re focusing on helping students feel connected, manage any beginning-of-year jitters, and learn healthy coping strategies.

3. Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

We are integrating SEL topics into our interactions, including self-awareness, empathy, and conflict resolution to promote a safe and respectful school environment.

• Schedules & Transitions: Please encourage your student to be patient as they adjust to new routines and responsibilities. Let us know if they’re struggling with the transition—we’re here to help.

• Communication is Key: If your student is experiencing social, emotional, or academic concerns, reach out to us early. It’s easier to support students before issues grow bigger.

• Stay Connected: Make sure your contact information is up to date in the school system to receive important announcements from the school and the counseling team.

• Backpacks & Binders: Help your child stay organized by setting a time each week to clean out and organize their backpack and folders.

• Daily Check-ins: A simple “How was your day?” can go a long way. Ask open-ended questions about classes, friends, and how they’re feeling.

• Set Goals Together: Short-term academic or personal goals help give your student purpose and motivation.

• "Help Kids Reset Sleep for School" – Practical steps to ease bedtime shifts—AP News AP News

• "Six Parent Efficiency Hacks for Back‑to‑School" – Smart planning frameworks—Business Insider Business Insider

• "Managing Back‑to‑School Stress as a Family" – Establishing calm and balance—Verywell Mind Verywell Mind

• "How to Thrift Smart for School Supplies" – Save money and teach eco-conscious shopping—Parents.com Parents

• Kids In Need Foundation – Connect to local centers offering supplies Wikipedia

• TXEL.org Back‑to‑School Resources – Enrollment checklists and learning tools (Texas-focused) Smore

📍 Counselor Office: Main office
📧 Email: kalyntaylor@herefordisd.net
📞 Phone: (806)363-7630 ext. 1341

📍 Counselor Office: Main office
📧 Email: abriecastillo@herefordisd.net
📞 Phone: (806)363-7630 ext 1340