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Counsellor's Corner

September 2025

Counsellor's CornerSeptember 2025
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🌟 Welcome Back to School!

A Note from the Counsellor

Welcome to a brand-new school year! I hope you had a summer full of rest, connection, and fun. As we begin another exciting year together, I want to take a moment to introduce myself (or re-introduce myself if you already know me!) and share a little about the role of the school counsellor.


My Role as Counsellor

As the school counsellor, I am here to support students’ social, emotional, and academic well-being. This might include:

  • Helping students build friendships and navigate peer relationships.

  • Supporting students who may feel anxious, worried, or overwhelmed.

  • Encouraging confidence, resilience, and a growth mindset.

  • Partnering with teachers and families to ensure each student feels safe, seen, and supported at school.


How Students Connect with Me

Students can connect with me by:

  • Speaking with their teacher, who can help them reach out.

  • Stopping by my office.

  • Parents/guardians can also email me directly if they feel their child might benefit from counselling support.


Tips for a Smooth Start

The beginning of the school year can bring excitement—and sometimes worries too. Here are a few ways to help your child ease into the routine:

  • Set predictable routines at home to give kids a sense of comfort.

  • Talk about the positives—what they’re looking forward to each day.

  • Encourage problem-solving and remind them it’s okay to ask for help.


Looking Ahead

This year, I’ll also be running small groups on topics like:

  • Friendship & social skills

  • Self-regulation & emotional awareness

  • Anxiety & worry

  • Growth mindset & confidence


These groups are a wonderful way for students to practice skills in a supportive setting. More information will be shared soon!


Let’s Connect

I look forward to working together with you this year. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions, concerns, or just want to say hello!


Wishing you and your family a wonderful start to the school year 🏫

Community Resources Community Resources

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  • Family Resource Network (FRN)
  • Family and Community Services
  • Solutions Navigation
  • Strathcona Food Bank
  • Big Brothers Big Sisters
  • BGC Strathcona County



Please reach out if you need any support in accessing services for your child or family.

Family Activities: Thing to do in Strathcona County Family Activities: Thing to do in Strathcona County

Families Resource Network Fall Program Schedule
Strathcona County Activities
Strathcona County Library Events
BGC Public Night Programs

Strathcona County Family Resource Network Strathcona County Family Resource Network

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Children’s Mental Health Learning Series Children’s Mental Health Learning Series

Resources to Support Children and Youth with Mental Health Concerns

Explore a series of videos designed for caregivers, families, and professionals, providing valuable insights and strategies to support children’s mental health.


Children’s mental health learning series | Alberta.ca

Helplines: Mental Health, Crisis, and Community Support Helplines: Mental Health, Crisis, and Community Support

Important Numbers

  • Kids Help Phone – 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
  • Addiction Helpline – 1-866-332-2322
  • Mental Health Helpline – 1-877-303-2642
  • Community Resources – 211 Alberta
  • Crisis Text Line - Text CONNECT to 741741
  • Family Violence – Find Supports – 310-1818
  • Health Link – 811
  • Income Supports – 1-866-644-5135
  • Local Resources & Support - Crisis Services Canada
  • MyHealth.Alberta.ca: List of Important Numbers
Contact Info

Tracy Russell, M.Ed.

School Counsellor BWD/FTV

BWD 780.467.5591

FTV 780.922.3058

tracy.russell@eips.ca

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