Elementary Guidance
Welcome to Elementary Guidance
Welcome to the North Schuylkill Elementary School Guidance Department! We are glad you’re here. The elementary years are a time of tremendous growth, and our goal is to help every student in grades K–6 feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.
The school counselor works with students individually, in small groups, and through classroom lessons that build skills such as managing emotions, solving problems, making friends, and treating others with kindness. The counselor also partners with teachers and families so that students have the support they need both at school and at home.
Families are an important part of this work. If your child is worried about school, going through a change at home, or just not acting like themselves, please reach out. No concern is too small, and a quick conversation is often the best first step. We look forward to working with you and your child this school year.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Heather Yarnitsky
Elementary School Counselor
How the School Counselor Can Help
- Individual and small-group counseling for social, emotional, and academic concerns
- Classroom guidance lessons that build social-emotional learning skills
- Support for students during difficult times such as family changes, grief, or friendship issues
- Consultation with parents, guardians, and teachers
- Referrals to the Student Assistance Program and community resources when additional support is needed
When Should I Contact the Counselor?
Families are welcome to contact the counselor any time they have a concern. For example, if a child seems worried about school, is having trouble with friendships, is going through a big change at home, or just isn’t acting like themselves. No concern is too small. The counselor can meet with your child, share strategies to use at home, and connect your family with additional resources if needed.
School counselor can provide short-term, school-based support, but sometimes a child may benefit from additional services outside of school.
Student Assistance Program (SAP)
North Schuylkill participates in Pennsylvania’s Student Assistance Program (SAP) (opens in new window), a team-based process that helps identify students facing barriers to learning — academic, behavioral, social, emotional, or family concerns — and connects them and their families with school and community supports. Parents, teachers, or staff may refer a student by contacting the school counselor. Parent permission is obtained before SAP services begin, and all referrals are kept confidential.
Family Resources
- Safe2Say Something (opens in new window) — Anonymously report safety concerns, or call 1-844-723-2729
- PA 211 (opens in new window) — Dial 211 for free, confidential help finding local services such as counseling, food, housing, and family supports
- Mental Wellness Department — Learn about our school psychologists, social workers, and mental health resources
Additional documents, forms, and family resources for Elementary Guidance will be posted here as they become available.