Mrs. Crabtree's Counseling Corner

In my school, I wear many many many many hats! One very important hat I wear is that of Building Assessment Coordinator. (BAC). It's a daunting task as I'm sure you all know. I remember my first year as BAC I was so overwhelmed! I hope these tips will help you as you guide your school toward successful testing! 1. Less is more! Designate an area in your office that is simply testing. I am careful not to take any testing materials outside of my designated "Testing Zone". This ensures test security and lessens the chances of things getting misplaced. 2. Communicate! Don't assume your teachers know even the simplest procedures. It's important you clearly define your procedures and be consistent!! 3. Delegate! This is HARD for me to do, but through the years it becomes easier. I get students to sharpen pencils for me and enlist the help of any available staff to help me bubble score sheets, check mom academic data, Etc. 4. Keep everything! I have a...

Whose Made a difference in your life? I found this activity on one of my favorite blogs-- Savvy School Counselor.   This week, I will be sharing it with my 3-5th graders. I have an activity sheet that I also got form The Savvy School Counselor.  The discussions have been amazing.  

Come back soon for TONS of activities I have found helpful in The Leader in Me implementation.      

I love love love Kid President!  I use this video to begin a discussion on careers and Habit 2--Begin With the End in Mind. Discussion Questions What does he mean when he talks about rocks and thorns?   What will be your Space Jam?   Discuss the obstacles that prevent us from reaching our goals. 

The Leader in Me  7 Habits Skits  The students in my classes performed skits pertaining to the Seven Habits. It's a fun way for the kids to apply what they are learning through The Leader Me.

State testing is just a week away and I am in a panic trying to get things done. I'm hoping to really inspire my kids to do their best by pumping them up with some great test taking tips and videos. I have read the book Hooray for Diffendoofer Day this week. It's a fun way to get the kids thinking about testing. We talk about how we need to be positive and discuss test taking strategies as well.

My name is Gina Crabtree.  I am the proud wife of Nathan Crabtree and a mom to two daughters, Natalie (20) and Allison (16).  I believe that if you do what you love it's never really work.  Well,  I ❤ My job!  I am a School Counselor at W.R. McNeill Elementary School.  I have had the privilege of working here as the School Counselor for almost 15 years.  When I became a School Counselor, I had NO IDEA where to start.  I felt so alone, until I stumbled across some amazing school counseling blogs. These ladies were so helpful and inspiring, and really help set the pathway for me to become the counselor I am today.  That is why, almost 10 years ago, I started my own blog.   My goal is to be a resource for any counselor struggling to find their voice, advocate for themselves, and develop lessons that are engaging to children. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me for anything you might need to help build your program into all  i...