School Counseling
Mission and Vision
To provide a comprehensive, developmental counseling program addressing the academic, career and personal/social development of all students in grades 6-8. In partnership with other educators, child study team members, the school nurse, school psychologist, parents/guardians, and the community, school counselors will facilitate a proactive support system necessary to ensure that all students at Okeeheelee Middle School have access to, and are prepared with, the knowledge and skills essential to contribute as lifelong, self-directed learners and responsible, productive members of society.
What Do School Counselors Do?
Middle school counselors are educators uniquely trained in child and adolescent development, learning strategies, self-management and social skills. We implement a school counseling program to support students through this important developmental period. The school counseling program provides education, prevention and intervention activities, which are integrated into all aspects of students’ lives. The program teaches students the knowledge, attitudes and skills necessary for academic, career and social/ emotional development. We offer individual counseling, small group counseling and classroom guidance. (ASCA, 2019)
Meet the Team
6th Grade / Lead Counselor: Shilah James (561) 434-3262
7th Grade Counselor: Margaret Salazar Gomez (561) 969-5706
8th Grade Counselor: Denise Davis (561) 434-3217
ESOL Counselor: Juanita Sanchez (561) 969-5725
504/SBT Contact: Elisabetta Antonacci (561) 434-3220
Social Services Facilitator: Mabel Santana (561) 434-3231
School Behavioral Health Professional: Alonzo Malvarez (561) 434-3290
Behavior Coach: Vania Polanco (561) 434-3237
DATA Prevention Counselor: Kaitlyn Ratoff
Co-Located Counselor: Render, Monifah
What is Mental Health?
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.
Over the course of your life, if you experience mental health problems, your thinking, mood, and behavior could be affected. Many factors contribute to mental health problems, including:
Biological factors, such as genes or brain chemistry
Life experiences, such as trauma or abuse
Family history of mental health problems
Source: https://www.mentalhealth.gov/basics/what-is-mental-health
Visit the School District's Caring First site for resources on behavioral and mental health.