Belmont Redwood Shores counselors enhance SEL curriculum with student and teacher feedback

Belmont-Redwood Shores Elementary School is making significant strides in enhancing student support services, particularly through the implementation of a dedicated counseling program. During the Regular Board Meeting on March 13, 2025, school officials highlighted the positive impact of having counselors on-site five days a week, a change that has fostered a more responsive and engaged environment for students.

Counselors are actively involved in classrooms, delivering lessons on social-emotional learning (SEL) and collaborating closely with teachers to address specific needs. This proactive approach allows counselors to identify and support students who may be struggling, both academically and emotionally. The use of data-driven methods, such as the Savers SEL screener, enables counselors to gain insights into student behaviors and tailor their interventions accordingly.

The meeting also underscored the importance of parent involvement in the counseling process. Parents are encouraged to communicate any concerns they have about their children, creating a feedback loop that enhances the support system. Counselors are not only accessible to students but also serve as a trusted resource for parents, ensuring that all parties are aligned in their efforts to promote student well-being.

Additionally, the discussion touched on the development of executive functioning skills among students, particularly as they transition to middle school. Counselors are already implementing lessons aimed at improving these critical skills, which are essential for managing increased academic demands. The school recognizes that fostering these abilities early on will better prepare students for the challenges of high school.

As the counseling program continues to evolve, school officials expressed optimism about refining their strategies and enhancing collaboration among counselors. The commitment to ongoing reflection and improvement indicates a strong foundation for future growth, ultimately benefiting the entire Belmont-Redwood Shores community. The board's focus on these initiatives reflects a dedication to nurturing not just academic success, but also the overall well-being of students.