Written byTheresa BrackenDirector of Special Education and Student ServicesGarnet Valley School DistrictGlen Mills, Garnet Valley, PA Dear Colleagues, As we observe National Dropout Prevention Month and National Safe Schools Week during the month of October, it’s a pertinent time to explore the intrinsic connection between school safety and dropout prevention.…
National Suicide Prevention Month Preventing suicide requires strategies at all levels of society. This includes prevention and protective strategies for individuals, families, and communities. Everyone can help prevent suicide by learning the warning signs, promoting prevention and resilience, and a committing to social change. We can all help prevent suicide. Every…
NATIONWIDE EFFORTS NIJ Studies School Safety According to the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), numerous studies over the past two decades have focused on developing and evaluating evidence-based prevention programs to improve the safety and well-being of American youth at school. The prevention of school-based violence can be especially important…
Why it is Important for Educators to Join Professional Organizations One thing many educators do not take full advantage of is professional organizations. Joining professional organizations is not only important from a career development perspective, but they also provide excellent opportunities to network and meet new people in the field.…
June is the time of year when students and teachers begin summer vacation. For school and district administrators, the calendar is less busy and time can be taken to enjoy less demands in the work environment. Take time in June for self care activities to lead to a more productive…
School Support Staff Play an Integral Role in Educating Children When people think of school, many will think of teachers and principals. But what of the many support staff who play integral roles within the school and in the educating of the students? The TAs (Teaching Assistants). Instructional Aides, and/or…
K-12 Student Services or Pupil Services: Synonymous, Vital According to California-based KidsData, pupil services address students’ social, emotional, behavioral, physical, and cognitive needs to help them reach their maximum academic and health potential. The availability of an array of pupil services personnel reflects a school's capacity to meet a wide…
Social Work Month in March is a time to celebrate the great profession of social work. The theme for Social Work Month 2023 is Social Work Breaks Barriers.School Social Workers are trained mental health professionals who can assist with mental health concerns, behavioral concerns, positive behavioral support, academic, and classroom…
School counseling plays an essential role in the educational process. School counselors work to maximize student success, promoting access and equity for all students. As vital members of the school leadership team, school counselors create a school culture of success for all. School counselors design and deliver school counseling programs that improve…
Mentoring in schools can pay big dividends for all involved. Here is some information on the basics. The Four Pillars of Mentoring: Whether you’re a mentor or mentee, be mindful of the four pillars of mentorship: trust, respect, expectation, and communication. Investing a few minutes to explicitly discuss the relationship…
