The short cut to higher self-esteem, for most children and adolescents, is academic success.
This idea, among others, guides counseling at BCS and helps our students achieve more in school and make wiser decisions with regard to their approach toward scholastic achievement. Public school has been so severely impacted by funding cuts that each counselor has a caseload of over two hundred students. At BCS we have three full time counselors, as well as several interns, helping to meet our student’s needs.
Many students make multiple years progress in the course of one academic year, and in turn make great strides in their self image. One most striking example is the young lady who made 4-5 years progress in her reading skills in one year. Her self-esteem has blossomed. We never tire of these individual success stories at BCS.
We would like to take this moment to thank our counselors who are always there to support and inspire students to keep working and keep trying.
Below is a short list of counseling activities:
College Prep and Beyond – The transition from high school to college often begins with our high schoolers starting to take college course while attending BCS. Our counseling facilitates this process.
Boys Group – From friendship to male identity, the issues that affect boys are discussed in a non threatening way.
Girls Group – A place where girls can discuss issues of importance to them.
Intern Training – upper school. A five-day a week University of California approved class. Please see the link to find out about our a-g classes and this one in particular: https://doorways.ucop.edu/list/
Art - A class that meets five days a week. A unique course in self exploration through art for young people who are interested in drawing, painting, etc, as a way to express themselves.
Individual Counseling – By appointment
Social Skills Class – lower school. The basics of getting along with friends, making friends, coping with frustration, communicating with teachers, etc.
Problem Solving – Counselors are available for students who need a few moments to get motivated for class. BCS counselors have extensive experience working with and motivating students who have ADD, ADHD and other learning differences.
Lunchtime Mentoring – To facilitate and mentor friendships, good choices and to just have fun.
In addition, our counselors work closely with teachers and parents to advocate for students and facilitate communication with our school and families. They write progress reports, distribute medication, make daily phone calls home, and support teachers by explaining each child’s unique needs.
The following is a summary of the upper school, boys counseling progress report for the year:
Throughout the year several students have commented that they really enjoy attending our group meetings because it provides them with an opportunity to meet and get to know others better. Not only does group counseling provide students the opportunity to learn and practice newly acquired school related skills it also allows students an opportunity to discuss various issues and concerns that are not always addressed in a typical classroom environment. For example, we have held discussions and completed activities centering on friendships, personal values, decision-making skills, teamwork, study skills and college life. In addition, we have had a number of discussions regarding depression, stress, and anxiety, and how to deal with these feelings. Because group sessions consist of students with diverse interests and needs, we cover a wide variety of topics.
Throughout the year students have made progress in a number of areas. Most of the students who were shy, resistant, or who felt uncomfortable sharing ideas are now actively participating in discussions. Many of our students are also learning how important it is to listen to others, speak from the heart, and respect others viewpoint. Now, these values are being incorporated into the students’ daily lives.
Overall group members have gained a better understanding and respect for each other. Students are more helpful and supportive of each other and have a genuine caring for each other. Group members give each other feedback, encouragement and confrontation when necessary. Typically, most group members report that the group is fun.