COUNSELOR'S CORNER

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Mary Ann Baker

Hey Everyone! I am one of the few remaining, original staff members of UE5G/RIS. I feel honored to get to be your child’s counselor this year!

I am a hometown girl and after graduating from RHS in 1976, I went to Central Bible College in Springfield Mo, where I received a BA in Religious Education.  I came back to ATU for a BS in Elementary Education.  While working as the Education Director at a local church and teaching 5th grade at Crawford Elementary, I traveled to UCA (in Conway) to get a MS in Early Childhood, and certification in Elementary Guidance. I am a National Board Certified Counselor and I have had the privilege to work for the Russellville School District since 1981.

I love spending time with my family, being active at New Life Church and coordinating events like weddings. My desire is to try and make a difference in the lives of others.

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RSD Counseling Beliefs

  • We believe when students feel safe and connected at school, they are better able to self-regulate and to solve problems.

  • It’s important that everyone (administrators, teachers, counselors, families, students) understand and support the counselor’s role in a comprehensive school counseling program.

  • Data collection and reflection support and allow counselors to improve upon counselors’ advocacy for students.

  • Students’ current and future successes (in academics, socially/emotionally, in careers, as citizens) are the focus of the school counselor. We believe students’ diverse talents should be cultivated, and their varying needs (academic, linguistic, social/emotional) should be met in the school setting.

  • To make lasting, sustainable change, counselors need to work with students’ families, as well as with students themselves.

  • School counselors need timely/current professional development in strategies/techniques that are aimed at meeting the needs of students, many of whom present with behavioral/emotional challenges, and whose families are impacted by a variety of complex issues.

RSD Counselors’ Vision

To partner with one another, as well as with educators, families, and the community to provide a safe environment, while empowering the whole child to become a successful, productive member of society.

RSD Counselors’ Mission

The Russellville School Counseling program supports, provides services to, and develops skills in every child, every day.