School Counseling Page
School Counseling Page
Relax, Reflect and Reset with School Counseling
The mission of Dinwiddie Elementary School’s counseling program is to support and inspire each student as they grow socially, emotionally, intellectually and physically. In this institution of learning, we are laying the foundation for a lifetime of exploration by our scholars.
Overview of the DES School Counseling Program
Here at Dinwiddie Elementary, we are meeting our students where they are. As part of a family, we make sure our future leaders know that they matter. In a collaborative effort with parents, students, faculty, staff and stakeholders, a positive inclusive community has been created where students know they are valued, heard and supported. As students relax, reflect and reset in a safe and confidential space they discover who they are as their confidence increases along with managing social/emotional challenges in a judgement free zone.
Role of the DES School Counselor
The role of the school counselor is vast, yet inclusive. As the school counselor at Dinwiddie Elementary, students are supported through all areas of their elementary educational journey. Interventions are in place to help students achieve academically, develop social/emotional skills related to the issues that our young people are facing today along with developing an understanding of the career opportunities now and in the future.
School Counseling Program at DES
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Purpose: To support students in developing effective study skills, goal setting, and academic planning.
Services Include:
- Individual academic assessments
- Assistance with organizational skills
- Support for students experiencing academic difficulties
- College and career readiness guidance
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Purpose: To promote emotional well-being and positive social interactions among students.
Services Include:
- Confidential individual counseling sessions
- Group sessions on topics like bullying, peer relationships, and self-esteem
- Crisis intervention and support
- Social skills development activities
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Purpose: To help students explore career interests and develop future plans.
Services Include:
- Career assessments and interest activities
- Guest speakers on Career Day
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Purpose: To assist students in need of additional support in achieving their full potential.
Services Include:
- 504 Plan development
- Student Success Team Intervention Plan (SST) academic interventions
- Collaboration with teachers/parents emotional interventions
- Transitional planning for secondary education
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Purpose: To promote healthy behaviors and prevent issues such as substance abuse, mental health crises, and violence.
Services Include:
- Social Emotional Learning activities
- Anti-bullying campaigns
- Stress management activities
- Mindfulness and resiliency activities
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Purpose: To foster a supportive school and home environment.
Services Include:
- Student support team consult on behavior/social/attendance strategies
- Safety support team
- Crisis intervention team
- Family counseling referrals
**Confidentiality** All student information is kept confidential unless there are safety concerns for an individual or family.
Community Resources
Department of Children’s Services: 804-469-5391
Greater Reach Community Services Board: Crisis Hotline: 804-862-8000
Department of Social Services: 804-469-4524
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: Call 988 or Text 988
Western Heights Baptist Church Clothes Closet: 804-733-8172
Salvation Army: 804-732-8449
Local Food Pantries
- Dinwiddie Food Bank
- 804-712-0190
- Carson Community Food Pantry
- 804-861-2011
- Dinwiddie Churches Pantry
- 804-732-3241
- Ocran United Methodist Church
- 804-733-299
- Pine Grove Baptist Church
- 804-469-3377
- Pathways VA, Inc.
- 804-862-1104
- West End Baptist Church
- 804-733-9331
Student Resources
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School Counseling Request Form
There is a school counseling form available for students to fill in.
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Virginia Career View
Virginia Career View-Help your child explore the many career possibilities through games and videos on Virginia career view.
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Mind Yeti
Mind Yeti-Teaches mindfulness, growth mindset, and relaxation techniques.
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About Me
It is a pleasure to meet you!
I am Dr. Cynthia Bratcher-Riddick, school counselor at Dinwiddie Elementary School. It is my honor to be of service to the families and community of this prestigious learning institution. As you scrolled through all of the programs, services and interventions we have here at DES, please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns that may arise.
Contact Information
Email: cbratcher-riddick@dcpsnet.org
Phone: (804)-469-4580 Ext. 8