School Counseling

Each year, we tailor our programming based on feedback and suggestions gathered through a survey of students and staff. This process helps determine the most effective format for each topic, whether in large classes or small groups. Each grade level receives three lessons per year, integrated into the standard curriculum. 

Examples of Whole-Grade Lessons:

Sixth Grade:

• School Counselor Introduction - August/September
• Stress Management
• Dealing with Peer Pressure
• Introduction to Personality and Careers
• Cyber Bullying - What Can I Do to Stop the Bullying Circle?
• Team Building

Seventh Grade:

• School Counselor Introduction - August/September
• Diversity
• Career Development II
• Bullying Bystander
• School Work vs. Real Work
• Building and Managing Healthy Relationships

Eighth Grade:

• School Counselor Introduction - August/September
• Career Exploration with O.C.I.S.
• Career Shadowing - Informational Session to Site Selection
• Conflict Resolution
• Coping with Stress Effectively
• Adjusting to High School

Small-Group Counseling

Small-group counseling will be offered throughout the school year based on survey responses. These sessions will meet weekly during lunch or advisory period for 4-6 weeks. If you believe your child would benefit from joining a group, you are encouraged to contact the counseling office to discuss any concerns or questions.

Past small-group counseling topics have included: 

• Study Skills, Goal Setting, Time Management
• Dealing with Divorce and/or Blended Families
• Self-Esteem and Positive Self-Image
• Friendship and Social Skills
• Understanding Parental Expectations vs. Personal Aspirations
• Assertiveness vs. Aggression and Using "I" Statements
• Money Management Skills
• Personality: "What Makes Me Special"

Below is a reference list of community agencies for issues beyond general guidance services. Please note: Beachwood Middle School or the Beachwood City School District has no affiliation with any outside agency. 

Crisis 

Bellefaire JCB - Intake Line   
(216) 320-8502
 
Frontline Mobile Crisis Team       
(216) 623-6888
 or 988
 
Hospice Western Reserve 
(216) 383-2222
 
National Alliance of Mental Health - Greater Cleveland
(216) 875-0266
 
Dr. Mark McConville
(216) 570-3235

General Counseling

Lifestance Health 
(216) 831-6611
 
Jay H. Berk
(216) 292-7170

Ellen Casper and Associates
(216) 464-4243

Hope Behavioral Health
(800) 642-4560

Signature Health
(440) 578-8200

Beachwood Middle School's new student orientation program is designed to facilitate a smooth and welcoming transition for new students. School counselors will meet with new students prior to their first day of class to review the daily bell schedule, class assignments, rules and expectations, locker combinations, and range of extracurricular activities.

In addition, the orientation includes several key components:

Large-Group Meetings: New students will participate in one or two large group sessions each month during lunch, where they can introduce themselves, discuss past school experiences, and set future goals.

Individual Sessions: New students have the opportunity for one-on-one meetings with a school counselor to discuss their transition to Beachwood Middle School. This meeting is scheduled two weeks after they begin. However, students may schedule this meeting with their counselor earlier if necessary.

Counselor Check-Ins: School counselors will consult with grade-level teachers two weeks post-arrival to assess new students' performance and adjustment. Families will be informed about any concerns.

Student Advocates: Each new student will be paired with a "student advocate," a peer from the same grade level, to assist with any questions and offer guidance.

Library Orientation: New students will meet with library staff to learn about our school computers, software programs, and library policies.

School Tours: Guided tours of the school will be provided by the school counselor or a student advocate to help new students navigate their new environment.

What Is Response to Intervention?

Response to Intervention (RTI) is our proactive approach to help students with learning and behavior challenges. It involves:

• Universal Screening: All students are assessed to identify those who may need additional support.
• Targeted Interventions: Students identified as needing help receive interventions at varying intensities.
• Progress Monitoring: We closely track the progress of these students to ensure the interventions are effective.
• Data-Driven Decisions: Decisions about the interventions are made based on how well the student responds to them.

A Team Approach

At Beachwood Middle School, our RTI strategy is a collaborative effort, ensuring that every student receives the support they need for both academic and behavioral success. Our school counselors facilitate this collaborative process by:

• Delivering a comprehensive school counseling curriculum that addresses all students' academic, career, and personal/social needs.
• Analyzing academic and behavioral data to identify students who require additional support.
• Communicating with families and involving them in the RTI process, enhancing the support network for students.
• Collaborating with grade-level teams to develop and monitor research-based interventions.
• Regularly reviewing student progress and adjusting strategies as necessary.
• Facilitating referrals to school and community services when needed.
• Ensuring equitable educational opportunities and working to remove barriers.
• Meeting directly with students involved in the RTI program to tailor interventions and monitor personal progress.

If you have any questions or wish to learn more about our RTI program, please do not hesitate to reach out to our school counselors.