Self-Reflection

This was a week of mixed emotions for me.  I have really been trying to reflect on my counseling program and how I can improve my work with students and staff.  In my quest for improvement, I sent out surveys to staff members and students.  I know, as everyone else, that I am not perfect and have a TON of room for improvement!  With that being said, it is never easy to get constructive (or sometimes not so constructive) criticism.

As I am reflecting on all of the surveys, I am learning that I have many things to feel good about and few things to work on.  I will be working very hard the rest of the year to improve the following things:

• How quickly I respond when I am contacted by staff members.
• Following up quickly and often after a referral has been made.
• Tracking how effective my services are (Have students' made positive growth because of our work together?)

I have to admit that it was pretty scary putting myself "out there" for everyone to rate.  I also have to admit that I have taken the (not so great) comments hard.  However, one cannot grow without evaluating every now and again.  

Even though it was hard to hear some negative feedback, I am glad my collegues respect me enough to be honest.  I am also glad that I have colleagues who are constantly building me up and supporting me because they know that being the only counselor in a school is challenging (you all know who you are...thank you!)  

Whew....self-reflecting is hard!

Now for some smiles from the student surveys.  Kids are HILARIOUS!  Every single survey had something about bullying.  I teach four bullying lessons per year so I guess that is what sticks in their heads.  I have often been referred to as "the bully teacher."

My absolute favorites were the last question on the survey.  I have listed them below...enjoy!

Question: 

  ~What would you like to learn from your school counselor?

Answers: 

  ~How to catch a snake. (Ummm....not gonna happen!)

  ~How to drink caffeine. (I can handle this one!)

  ~How to play football. (This was my own son.)

  ~How to make a cake. (I like cake.)

  ~How to do a back flip. (Again....not gonna happen!)

  ~Learn about fleeing. (I'm hoping they meant feelings!)

  ~To tell us not to eat ice cream. (It's not a food group?)

  ~I already know all I need from her she is awesome! (This one made me feel good.)

Ok, time to get busy and make my counseling program rock!