WELCOME TO
MT. PLEASANT GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT
JoAnn Lemaldi
School Counselor
973-669-5480
"School Counselors point you in the right direction"
The Elementary Counseling Curriculum is designed to meet the needs of all the students in grades K-5. The Elementary Counseling Curriculum focuses on Character Education.The curriculum teaches the six steps of Character: RESPECT, RESPONSIBILITY, HONESTY/TRUSTWORTHINESS, CARING, FAIRNESS and CITIZENSHIP. The curriculum allows for six thirty minute lessons in each of the grade levels K-5 covering one of the six pillars of character. Each year the six pillars are revisited at every grade level building upon the skills taught in prior lessons.
Throughout the school year students may have the opportunity to participate in Small Group Counseling. Small Groups are a great way for students to learn new skills, become more aware of others' views and experiences, develop self-confidence and better understand how to deal with problems life may present. Some topics covered in Small Groups are: SOCIAL SKILLS, SELF ESTEEM, ANGER MANAGEMENT, LOSS/GRIEF. The counselor coordinates and conducts activities that facilitate students' acquisition of the skills necessary for them to become responsible citizens and effective members of society.