If you’ve ever wondered what a school counselor does all day, you’re not alone! Think of this as a Jeopardy board of Mrs. Zaruba’s job—Longfellow edition.
What Is… Teaching in Classrooms?
My classroom lessons are called CAPS lessons, which stands for Career, Academic, Personal, and Social skills. I teach CAPS lessons in every classroom every other week, and each grade level focuses on skills that best fit their developmental needs.
Preschool and Kindergarten students are learning about the Zones of Regulation to help them identify and manage big feelings.
First grade focuses on self-control (ask them about Clark the Shark or the famous marshmallow test!).
Second grade works on conflict resolution and problem solving. Recently, students practiced active listening by working with a partner to draw a picture based only on verbal directions. Ask your second grader all about problem solving solutions!
Soon all classrooms Kindergarten through Second grade will be starting the Child Protection Unit by Second Step. We will be learning about the 8 never never rules, trusted adults, and personal body safety.
All CAPS lessons are thoughtfully designed using the ASCA Mindsets and Behaviors along with Iowa K–2 Employability Skills to ensure students are learning the social, emotional, and life skills they need to be successful, both in and out of school.
What Is… Teaching Small Groups?
I also work with students in small groups, usually during WIN time or lunch. Students may be invited to join a group for many reasons, including parent or teacher requests, SAEBRS screener results, or through our PBIS system.
Each group is based on specific skills students need extra support with. Many groups follow a structured curriculum like Second Step or Kelso’s Choices, while others are lovingly known as “Mrs. Zaruba specials.” These groups often include arts and crafts, games, discussion, and reflection—because learning important skills should also be fun.
What Is… Everything Else?
If I fully described everything I do, it would include a lot of “duties as assigned.” Some of those include:
Supporting PBIS
Meeting individually with students during moments of crisis
Second grade recess duty and breakfast duty
Co-running Kindness Krew with Miss Haag
Helping provide school supplies and clothing for students in need
Collecting and loaning winter gear
Running the food drive and supporting Start School Right
Connecting families with community resources
Listening to and supporting parent concerns
Attending student-centered meetings
Leading District PBIS Leadership Team work
Giving hugs and high-fives as needed
If I leave Longfellow with less than 10,000 steps, it probably means I was in meetings all day.
What Is… The Best Job Ever?
There is truly nothing better than being a school counselor. I love every hug, every smile, every wiped tear, and every joke. I love playing games, laughing with students, and being their confidant and cheerleader. I love supporting Longfellow’s incredible staff and families.
I love this job, and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
Thank you for all of your love and support.
Please reach out if you ever need anything.