Darin R. Ford has an undergraduate degree from University of Central Missouri (UMC) a Masters from the University of Missouri-Columbia and an Educational Specialist degree from UMC. He and his wife Donna have two sons.
Alex and Jason come home with the same math homework.
Alex complains to his mom, "It's just not fair. Mr. Jenson gives us too much homework. I don't know how to do this. He never explains anything. You need to help me. It's going to take too long!"
"How did he explain this homework?" asks mom.
"I don't remember. You need to help me," says Alex.
Mom opens the book and points out the answers. She gets the task over quickly and then lectures, "You'd better start paying attention in class!"
Jason makes the same complaint to his mom.
"How did your teacher explain this homework?" asks mom.
"I don't remember. You need to help me," says Jason.
"How sad," answers Mom. "I'll be happy to help when you work harder on your schoolwork than me, and I know that you are listening in class." With that, she tells Jason to open his book and try to remember how the teacher told him to do the work. "You can watch your program when it's finished," she tells Jason.
Which mom did the best job of parenting?
Which kid is more likely to start listening better in class?
I bet you know the answer.
-copyright 2007- Jim and Charles Fay monthy publication
Description of Services
Thursday, 21 April 2011 08:16 | | |
The goal of the guidance department is to support the healthy growth and development of the total child (social, emotional, and academic) in his/ her world of school, home, and community.This process of growth is encouraged through classroom guidance lessons, small group counseling, individual counseling, consultation with parents and teachers, and coordination of services.
Detail of Services:
Classroom Guidance Lessons (a.k.a Counselor O'Clock)- Planned, educational groups designed to help students understand and deal with normal developmental tasks and issues.Examples include character education, peer relationships, conflict resolution, and personal safety.These lessons are provided for all students through a collaborative effort by the counselor and teachers.They also provide an important opportunity for non-referred students to interact with the counselor.
Small Group Counseling- The counselor works with 2-4 students who have been referred for a similar issue.This format uses a psycho-educational model that is goal-centered and oriented toward enhancing and developing coping skills.Some common types of counseling groups deal with divorce, friendship, self-esteem, anger, and grief or loss.These groups are confidential in nature.
Social Groups- The counselor hosts various groups such as “Lunch Bunch” and “Welcoming New Students” which allow students to socialize with one another and the counselor without the structure and parameters of a formal counseling group.
Individual Counseling- The counselor works one-on-one with a student to help them resolve problems and developmental concerns, enhance decision-making skills, and/or build coping skills.This is a confidential relationship and is a short-term limited intervention (not intensive therapy).
Referral Assistance- The counselor maintains a comprehensive list of specialists who may be helpful in the event of a concern beyond the scope of school counseling services.
School-Based Consultation with teachers, parents, and specialists
Classroom Observation
Coordination of Services
If you have questions or would like specific information regarding the guidance services offered for your child, please contact Ms. Riddle anytime!
Elementary Guidance Counselor
Thursday, 21 April 2011 08:13 | | |
Ms. Riddle graduated from Stephens College in 2007 with a Master of Education degree in School Counseling and Licensed Professional Counseling. This is her 4th year as Guidance Counselor at Chance Elementary.
In addition to her weekly guidance lessons, Ms. Riddle also works individually with students and facilitates student interest groups throughout the year. Ms. Riddle also offers consulting and referral services for parents and teachers, as well as coordination of community services available in our area for students and families. She has a wide variety of informational materials and resources available for topics ranging from school adjustment and social skills to homework and discipline. Please feel free to email Ms. Riddle or call anytime with your questions or concerns.
Phone: (573) 982-1014 Fax: (573) 682-1369 Email:
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