Julie Masson and Cathy Swinston are the 2 Family School Enhancement Counsellors at St. Martin de Porres.
They are also very lucky to be working with Rania Paige as part of our team from Alberta Health Services.
They are here to help ALL students be successful in our faith-filled environment, socially, emotionally and behaviourally so they may access their education without barriers.
Here's what we'd like you to know about our team:
- Each of us are only ONE part of the team that works to help your child succeed.
- We will be working to get to know ALL students so they may feel connected and safe while they are with us.
- We respect your right and your child’s right to privacy. Confidentiality is a paramount part of our jobs.
- Please feel free as parents to reach out to ask questions or share concerns, as well as, to share positive things about your child.
- We are looking forward to helping your children along the path of becoming respectful and responsible citizens.
Teacher/ Counsellor Role:
- Classroom Lessons- Students will learn social-emotional skills such as feelings, communication, problem-solving etc. dependent on the needs of the group.
- Small-Group Counselling- The counselling team will facilitate small groups of students who need a little extra support in certain areas.
- Individual Support- Students who need short term support will have the opportunity to work through problems and implement strategies with our counselling team.
- Consultation with Staff/ Parents- Our counselling team is available to meet/ talk with teachers and parents to help support students and provide resources and education about issues affecting children.
Family School Enhancement Counsellor Role:
- provide in-home support for families dealing with social, emotional, or behavioural issues; making appropriate referrals to outside agencies.
- assist in strengthening parenting skills/strategies.
- act as a liaison between the family and the school and/or community.
- help families in reaching out to community resources/agencies.
Alberta Health Services (Rania Paige):
The approach that works best in school-based prevention is one that builds capacity, is comprehensive and multi-layered. AHS will coordinate activities that involve students, school staff, parents, and community partners and reflect the priorities of the school community.
In collaboration with school partners, Alberta Health Services will focus on:
- In-class and out of class learning focused on addiction prevention and mental health promotion
- Training opportunities for parents and school staff focused on prevention and promotion
- Activity development about making healthy choices at school and home
- Resources associated with mental health promotion and addiction prevention