Welcome to the HWMS Counselor Page!

  • School Counselor  

     Counselor Staff

    Mrs. Jennifer Wideman - 6th Grade 

    Mrs. Catherine Stapleton  - 7th Grade

    Mrs. Tamara Johnson  - 8th Grade

     

    Comprehensive Guidance Program

    The Hazelwood West Middle School Guidance Department strives to provide a comprehensive program to serve all students, meeting academic, career, and social/emotional needs.  The core of school counseling services fall into four categories according to the district, Missouri, and national standards (ASCAMSCA, HSD Comprehensive Guidance Program).

     

    Frequently Asked Questions 

    1.    HOW DOES A STUDENT SEE A COUNSELOR?

    If a student would like to see a counselor, he/she should ask a teacher for a pass to go to the counseling office. Unless the student has an urgent need to see a counselor, the teacher may recommend a specific time for the student to leave class, so that the student does not miss too much important academic information.  

    Students may also email or complete a "Counselor Referral Form" and submit to the open locker outside the Counselor's Office.

    2.    HOW DOES A PARENT/GUARDIAN SEE A COUNSELOR?

    Parents and guardians are welcome to meet with counselors and are asked to make appointments in advance, to ensure that the counselor will be available.  You may call or email a counselor to set-up a meeting. 

    3.    WHY WOULD A STUDENT SEE A SCHOOL COUNSELOR?

    A.   Academic/Educational Counseling – Students sometimes have academic problems in areas including study habits, expectations, time management, organizational skills, and the level of the curriculum.  A counselor may assist students in exploring solutions to these and other academic problems.

    B.    Personal/Social Counseling – A counselor may assist students to develop skills to interact more effectively with others, identify personal values, talents and interests and transition into and out of middle school. The counselor will also provide support and assistance to students and families in crisis and can provide referrals to outside agencies for more extensive assistance, including counseling, evaluations or treatment.

    C.  Career/Vocational Counseling – A middle school counselor may assist students in the early stages of career exploration.