Hi there! My name is Kendyl Ulrich (the kids call me Ms. U!), This year marks my tenth year as a school counselor, and my fifth year at Bow Elementary School!
What is a school counselor, you may wonder? A school counselor works with all students, individually, in small groups, and in the classroom. The goal is to assist students with any issue that may be interfering with learning (academics, peer relations, conflicts, family situations, attendance, etc.). I consult with parent and teachers to best help each student and ensure that his/her needs are met. Parents may contact me with a specific concern. Teachers may ask me to check in with a student. Students may seek my assistance to talk as well. They may stop me in the hallway or make an appointment to talk about a particular topic or issue. Sometimes, I will borrow a student or group of students to see me in my office. DON'T BE ALARMED!!! I most likely need to ask a question, check in, or follow up on something. Students are also welcome to "pop in" just to say hi or have lunch.
When a student talks to me, it is confidential. HOWEVER, if a student tells me that they are going to hurt someone, that they are hurting themselves, or that they are being hurt/abused by someone, I am no longer able to keep that information confidential. I will need to take appropriate measures to ensure the student's safety.
There are times that a student may talk to me about something that I think a parent/guardian, teacher, or other adult needs to be made aware. I will talk about the situation with the student and work with the student to inform the necessary individuals. This can be difficult and overwhelming for the student; however a student's well being is always the priority.