School Counseling

School Counselors

Mission

The mission of the River Bend School Counseling Department is to provide a comprehensive, data-driven program that supports students’ academic, social/emotional and career development. The program promotes the academic achievement of all students and prepares them to be successful in their postsecondary endeavors. RBM School counselors will work collaboratively with teachers, staff, families, and community members to promote a positive, safe, and supportive school community in which learning is student centered, individualized, and differentiated based on the needs of the students. The counseling department will help in building relationships with all stakeholders to make sure that instruction is equitable and every student has an opportunity to be successful. Through the collaboration of the whole school community, we encourage students to have a growth mindset and learn through failures. We strive to have all our students become lifelong learners who make meaningful contributions to the world.

Vision

The vision for the River Bend Middle (RBM) School Counseling department is to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student is empowered to learn, grow, and succeed. We believe that all students deserve equitable access to a rigorous education and a comprehensive school counseling program. RBM School Counselors’ goals are to equip each student with the skills and resources necessary for successful academic endeavors, social/emotional growth, and career aspirations, ensuring they are prepared to reach their full potential and achieve their dreams. As leaders within our school community, we are committed to creating a culture of support and advocacy. We are dedicated to fostering resilience, integrity, self-awareness, and empathy in our students. Together, we believe we can shape a brighter future through high school and post-secondary endeavors for all students at River Bend Middle School.

Beliefs

  • All students are valued and have a right to be treated with respect and dignity.

  • All students are members of the school community and their voice should be heard.   

  • All students have a right to access the school curriculum, as well as the school counseling program and services. 

  • All students are individuals and have different learning styles and strengths. 

  • All students have the ability to learn and achieve. 

  • All students should have trusted adults in the school building that are available to talk to. 

  • Diversity is embraced and celebrated. 

  • All students should have an opportunity to develop social and emotional competencies which include:  self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. 

  • The school counseling program will be comprehensive in supporting students’ academic, social and emotional, and career development. 

  • The school counseling program is data driven and results are shared and reviewed with all stakeholders through the Advisory Council.

RBM Counselors

6th Grade A-L

Katie Plys

6th Grade M-Z & Lead Counselor

Katharine Smorodin

7th Grade A-N

Savannah Boeing

7th Grade O-Z & 8th Grade O-Z

Carey Walker

8th Grade A-N

Courtney Bredow

LCPS District Resources

Crisis Mental Health Resources

Program of Studies