Waldo has two full-time counselors: Ms. Brown and Mr. Curran. School counselors work with students, school staff, families, and members of the community as an integral part of the education program. School counseling promotes school success through a focus on academic goal setting, prevention and intervention activities, advocacy, and social/emotional developmental issues.

Individual counseling is available by appointment and group counseling is also offered. The focus of the groups may vary such as social/friendship, learning to deal with grief/loss and learning to better manage feelings such as anger. The group generally runs for eight weeks and the students are taken out of a different class each week so as not to miss one class more than the others. They are expected to make up the work missed. A parent/guardian needs to provide permission for a student to participate in the group.

If there are any issues at home that may affect your student at school or if you have any concerns about your student’s academic/social development, we encourage you to make an appointment by calling a counselor in advance. Dropping by without an appointment may lead to frustration as the counselor may already be meeting in a classroom or be out of the building. By setting an appointment, the counselor can set an adequate amount of time to discuss concerns and/or share information.

If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, the Waldo counselors can be reached by calling 503-399-3215.

In our schools and communities, there are many anti-alcohol ad campaigns aimed at keeping young peole from drinking. However, aminstream music, movies, and television send them other messages.

The Action Steps listed are a few ideas to try at home with your teen to help your family become media smart.

For more information:

• Cyndi Astley, Community Action Drug Prevention Network, 503-585-6232
• Jennifer Robin, Marion Country Health Department Prevention Services, 503-361-2785
• Jackie Cupples, City of Salem, Department of Community Services, 503-588-6261

Action Steps:

• Know what movies and television shows your teen is watching and to what music he/she is listening.
• Take the time to watch and listen with your teen. This can provide an opportunity to talk about the consequences of alcohol use.
• Watch an alcohol ad and discuss how the media uses its influence through music, special effects, and/or editing to sell the product
• Plan activities that do not involve media. Get outside and get active.