District adds two elementary counselors

Two elementary school counselors have been hired in the Las Virgenes Unified School District to support students with social, family, learning and behavioral issues.

According to Ann Eklund, LVUSD director of elementary education, Jennifer Ruppert and Kelly Meador have been hired as elementary counselors.

“We’re really excited,” said Meador about her new position. “It’s a groundbreaking program being implemented at all of the elementary sites.”

Meador added that counseling will encompass more than just social, emotional and academic support. Plans are underway for students to participate in a career awareness day and counselors expect to conduct a series of parent education classes.

After working with students individually and in group settings, Meador said that she and Ruppert will consult with teachers, parents, students and administrators.

Meador and Ruppert will also monitor students with developmental problems and initiate conferences with parents, teachers and other “appropriate adults” in a position to resolve problems. They will also help coordinate appropriate services for students as needed.

In addition to working with students with specific problems, the counselors will also conduct classroom activities designed to improve communication between students and enhance social skills.

Eklund said that the plan for the counselors was modeled in part after the Conejo Valley Unified School District, which has employed elementary counselors for several years. She said that having “one more caring adult” looking at students and helping them sort through problems will make a difference in their school careers and their lives in general.

Stephen Hanke, assistant superintendent of personnel, said that the counselors will spend most of their time working directly with students, “not shuffling papers.”

“This is unique opportunity to really make a difference for our elementary students,” Hanke said.

LVUSD Superintendent Sandra Smyser added the counselors, even though they are credentialed, will not serve as substitute teachers, administrators or deans. The counselors’ main goal, she said, is to work directly with students.

Meador and Ruppert will also collaborate with middle school teachers so the transition will be smoother from elementary to middle school.

“Collaboration is very meaningful,” said Eklund. “We can help each other and learn from each other.”