5 GUERINCATHOLIC.ORG Concerns about our students’ mental health was also at the forefront of our minds. Our daily routines changed overnight and it seemed that the only thing that was consistent was being ready for inconsistency and prayer. However, we continued to try to provide some consistency for students. Counselors at GC continued to have daily check-ins with some students. Each counselor recorded a video to send to their students, created a Mental Health Resource sheet that was sent to students and families, and sent Wellness Surveys weekly to students to check in and to talk through the blessings and challenges in their lives. Zoom meetings became a necessity to maintain connections and reach students. Communication with parents, teachers, and administrators was more essential than ever in order to best serve our students. We even provided information regarding virtual college tours and information sessions for those who were missing out on physical college visits. While our community looked incredibly different, it was still that sense of community and hope that helped us do our best as school counselors. A verse from 2 Timothy sums up the experience in the best way, “The Lord stood with me and strengthened me.” 2 Tim 4:17 As we begin the 2020-2021 school year, there is a nervous excitement. It’s exciting to see our students and to be back together as a community, but we also recognize that this is going to be another unprecedented year. The pandemic is not over and COVID-19 has impacted our communities and students in different ways. However, despite the fact that each student may be carrying additional stress, anxiety, or other mental health concerns to school this year, I believe we have more tools in our toolbox as school counselors to meet students where they are—physically or virtually. We have had four months of adjusting on the fly, and we will continue to push ourselves to learn and grow in order to provide the best support for our students: a testament that learning is a lifelong experience. At Guerin Catholic, we have had the opportunity to expand and upgrade the technology and teaching subscriptions to our faculty and staff in order to reach students if they have to be at home. We know that families come to our school to be part of our school community and to receive quality instruction. We also know from the experiences of last year, we have the dedication to provide that for our students and families. While much has changed, we know that students may need more help and support than ever, and with the help of our community and with our faith in the Lord, we are ready and excited for the 2020-21 school year. n Campus Ministry printed the photos of all students for a live-streamed “All-School Mass” in St. Joseph’s Chapel during Quarantine “However, despite the fact that each student may be carrying additional stress, anxiety, or other mental health concerns to school this year, I believe we have more tools in our toolbox as school counselors to meet students where they are—physically or virtually.” Mrs. Emily McAulay School Counselor (J-P)
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