Mission Statement

The mission of the Valley View Elementary Counseling Program is to nurture and support EVERY student in reaching his/her full potential academically, socially and emotionally. The program strives to promote and enhance student achievement by delivering prevention, intervention and referral services. It is our goal to work collaboratively with students, parents, staff and the community to provide a safe and encouraging educational experience.

What Are The Limits of Confidentiality?

Elementary students are beginning to understand the value of privacy for themselves, their families and others. Respecting the child's (and family) right to privacy, confidentiality, is fundamental to the counseling relationship. It allows students an opportunity to share their concerns with a trusted adult who will listen non-judgmentally and help them problem solve in an environment of physical and emotional safety. Because the safety of ALL students is paramount, there are limits to maintaining confidentiality. As required by Washington State Law and Ethical Standards of the American School Counselor's Association, the following are instances where a school counselor MUST report disclosed information to the appropriate authority:
1. Intent to harm one's self or someone else is expressed.
2. Suspected abuse or neglect of a child or adult.
3. An appropriate court order is received and verified.
4. Legal consent is given to share specific information.

For more information about the legal and ethical requirements of a school counselor, please visit http://www.schoolcounselor.org/

How Are Students Referred To The Counselor?

Parents / Guardians, teachers or other staff may refer a student by simply discussing their concern with Mrs. Ingraham. There is not a formal process. Parents who are concerned about their child's academic, social or emotional well-being are encouraged to contact Mrs. Ingraham to set up a meeting. It is our goal to work collaboratively with a student's caregiver to offer support and encouragement while they are a student at Valley View Elementary. Students are also welcomed to make appointments or stop in when Mrs. Ingraham is available to discuss any issues or concerns they might be dealing with. If Mrs. Ingraham intends on meeting with a particular student on a regular basis, the caregiver will be notified and consent given. If you have any question, please contact Mrs. Ingraham at 925-8174 or by email at erica.ingraham@esd401.org.

How Do I Contact Mrs. Ingraham?

Mrs. Ingraham's regular school hours are M-F, 8:30 am - 4:00 pm. Her office phone number is 925-8174. You may also email her at erica.ingraham@esd401.org.

Programs

Kelso's Choices

http://vimeo.com/29759384
Click on Link to Watch Video!

Kelso's Choices Conflict Resolution Program .
This highly effective program teaches kids the difference between "Big Problems" versus "Small Problems." Beginning in Kindergarten, students are taught the 9 strategies to minimize conflict. Students are also given opportunities to practice, share and discuss concerns during regularly scheduled lessons taught by Mrs. Ingraham. You may also want to look at the website www.kelsochoices.com for additional information and ways to use this program to help solve conflict between siblings within the home!