Hi, my name is Laurie Shrable.  I am happy to serve as your school counselor here at the West Plains Elementary School. Throughout the school year, I will be working alongside our classroom teachers to provide lessons and activities to help with your child’s academic, career, and social/emotional development.  I will be in your child’s class on a eight-day rotation for 25-30-minute meetings.  During this time, some of the topics we will learn about include: sharing, taking turns, personal space, being good friends, the difference between tattling and reporting/telling, exploring careers, making safe and healthy choices, planning for success and so much more.  So often when one thinks of a school counselor’s role, they are mistaken to think that we provide services for just those students who are struggling or to the high flyers/gifted students. I’m happy to say that the role of today’s school counselors is to provide services for EVERY student in the school! Our school’s counseling program takes a proactive approach and teaches all students the skills necessary for academic success, healthy life choices, career awareness, and how to develop interpersonal skills. In addition to scheduling classroom guidance lessons, I am available to parents and students throughout the year to help with transitions, coping skills, and to address other concerns that may come up throughout the school year. If I can help at any time throughout the year, please do not hesitate to contact me. I am looking forward to a great year and wish you all a very happy and successful school year!