Counseling Corner

We hope you are all doing well and are energized to finish the school year off strong! Please reach out to any of us if you have any questions these last couple months of school.

- Ms. Bechard, Ms. Goodier, Ms. Kunert

1. Stay organized. Keep track of assignments, due dates, and test dates. The Schoology calendar and your "notes" app are very helpful.

2. Develop good study habits. Set aside regular homework time at home.

3. Stay focused: Avoid distractions such as social media or video games during study time. Keep your phone in another room if you have to!

4. Ask for help! Don't be afraid to ask DHMS teachers for help. Ask for help during work time in class, or get a pass to come get help during FLEX. And if even more help is needed - sign up for our after school homework help program.

5. Show up. If you're nervous about something, don't avoid it. Be here everyday and go to every class. Showing up is half the battle.

6. Participate. Participate in class discussions, ask questions, and offer input to show engagement in the learning process.

7. Take good notes. Take detailed and organized notes during class to help with studying later on.

8. Use study aids. Flashcards, outlines, or any online apps or aids that your teacher recommends

9. Stay healthy. Get plenty of sleep, exercise regularly, and eat a healthy diet to maintain good physical and mental health.

10. Stay motivated. Set goals, track progress, and reward yourself for achieving milestones to stay motivated throughout these last couple months.

If your teen is struggling with anxiety, low mood, loneliness or unhealthy distractions (like screen time), you are not alone! As a parent or caregiver, it is often hard to know how to help your child learn the skills they need to overcome their challenges and thrive personally and academically. EmpowerU is a program paid for and vetted by District 196 that can help!

SIGN UP TODAY BY CLICKING HERE

Being a teenager can be complicated— especially when it comes to technology. For teens, devices can unleash essential opportunities for connection and learning. Yet educators, mental health professionals, and parents alike are concerned about the impact of increased screen time on adolescent mental health and wellbeing. In this interactive conversation, Erin Walsh and Dr. David Walsh, co-authors of national bestseller Why Do They Act That Way?, will connect the dots between the science of the teenage brain and the risks and rewards amplified by their digital activities. You will leave with a better understanding of when tech meets the developmental needs of teens, when it doesn’t, and what adults can do about it.

You can register here.

We are available during school hours

Maureen Bechard

6th Grade

Maureen.Bechard@district196.org

651-683-6846

Rachel Goodier

7th Grade

Rachel.Goodier@district196.org

651-683-6868

Erica Kunert

8th Grade

Erica.Kunert@district196.org

651-683-6847