The mission of the West Fargo Elementary Counseling Program is to proactively prepare students to be integrated, successful adults by fostering skills in the areas of social emotional, academic and career development. In doing this, we decrease barriers and advocate for student achievement in all areas of their lives, to nurture resiliency in this ever-changing world. Our collaborative team of counselors, administrators, staff, parents and community members work together to create a supportive, safe and compassionate environment. Through this partnership of stakeholders, along with a comprehensive, standard-driven curriculum, we strive to prepare students to be the best version of themselves as lifelong learners.
School Counselors often lead a school's work in conflict resolution, and can play an important role in bully intervention. They refer students and families to community agencies that can help them meet their food, housing, and legal needs, as well as address other challenges they may be facing. They can play a huge role in building the culture and climate of a school. They also often lead a school's work in "soft skills," such as grit, motivation, and self-regulation, conducting lessons directly with students and training other staff in how to develop these skills in students. In addition, they do much, much more to remove barriers to learning and help students thrive.