Puckett's Mill Elementary School Counseling Dept - pmescounseling

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Contact Information

Heather Heigl, 678-765-5123

Ginna Smith, 678-765-5124

Fax 678-765-5240

Classroom Guidance (RRT) Schedule:

Grades 4 and 5: Aug. 8 - Nov. 4

Grades K and 1: Nov. 7 - Feb. 22

Grades 2 and 3: Feb. 23 - May 23

Parenting Workshops

Below is information that was shared at our recent Parenting Workshops.

1-2-3 Magic - February 2012

Dr. Thomas Phelan's program is easy-to-use and effective for managing difficult behaviors in children. Parenting strategies are available through book and DVD resources - contact our office if you are interested in viewing these materials.

Bullying Prevention - October 2011

Our Counseling Program teaches children bullying prevention strategies and assertiveness training. We utilize class discussions, storytelling, movies, and role playing in our guidance lessons. Students learn about conflict resolution skills and problem solving techniques.

1-2-3 Magic

Bullying Prevention Information for Parents

Bullying Resource (see Parent Resources page for more links)

News

2011-2012 School Year

Gwinnett Helpline

Need Help? Looking for information or resources in Gwinnett County? You can call the Gwinnett Helpline at 770-995-3339 for information & referrals for family challenges, emergency shelter, health services, childcare, counseling, food, legal services and so much more.

Mission Statement

The mission of Puckett's Mill Elementary School's Counseling Department is to provide a comprehensive counseling program that will assist all students in acquiring the skills, knowledge, and attitudes needed to become successful students, responsible citizens, productive workers, and lifelong learners. Our counseling program provides a nurturing and supportive environment to all students and staff which enhances and allows students to reach their highest potential. Our porgram includes counseling in the areas of personal and social skills, academic achievement and career interest and development.

Counseling Services

What does a school counselor do?

• A school counselor consults, coordinates, and counsels.
• A counselor teaches classroom guidance lessons that cover the Gwinnet County Elementary Guidance and Counseling Competencies for each grade level.  Lessons focus on topics such as study skills, listening and following directions, respecting oneself and others, bullying, following rules, expressing feelings appropriately, exploring possible career opportunities, personal safety, and working cooperatively.
• A counselor works individually with students on an as-needed basis.  Students can be referred to a counselor by a teacher, parent, or the student himself.
• A counselor works with small groups of students on a variety of topics.  Groups may include: family changes, grief and loss, social skills, self esteem, friendship, test-taking skills.
• A counselor works with parents to help them better understand their child's growth and development.

When should you call a counselor?

• When your child is having difficulty learning.
• When family changes interfere with academic progress.
• When your child needs extra help adjusting to school.
• When you want to arrange a meeting with several teachers or both a teacher and a counselor.
• When you need help interpreting test and school records and tracking school progress.
• When you want to discover available community resources and agencies for your child or your family.

What Parents Can Do to Help Children Cope with Feelings

• Talk with your child, providing simple, accurate information to questions.
• Talk with your child about his/her feelings.
• Listen to what your child says and how your child says it.  Is there fear, anxiety, insecurity? Your repeating the child's words may be very helpful, such as, "you are afraid that..." or "you wonder if someone else will die." This helps both you and the child clarify feelings.
• Reassure your child, "We are together. We care about you. We will take care of you."
• You may need to repeat information and reassurances many times. Do not stop responding just because you told the child once.
• Hold the child. Provide comfort. Touching is important for children during this period.
• Spend extra time putting your child to bed. Talk and offer assurance. Leave a night light on if necessary.
• Observe your child at play. Listen to what is said and how the child plays. Frequently children express feelings of fear or anger while playing with dolls, trucks, or friends.
• Provide play experiences to relieve tension. Work with playdough, paint, play in water, etc. If children show the need to hit or kick, give them something safe such as a pillow, ball, or balloon.
• If you need help for your child, contact your school counselor.

Puckett's Mill Counselors

Heather Heigl

Grades 1, 3, 5

I have been a school counselor for thirteen years.  I received both my BA and my Master of Science in Counselor Education from Canisius College, Buffalo, NY.  I grew up in the WNY area and return often to visit with family and friends.

Prior to PMES, I was at Ivy Creek Elementary for three years, with Orange Co Public Schools for 3 years (Orlando, FL), and Charlotte-Mecklenberg Schools for 3 years (Charlotte, NC).  I am pleased to now be working for Gwinnett County Public Schools, a world-class school system. 

I enjoy spending time with my husband and two daughters.  My daughter Melanie is a 2nd grade student at Puckett's Mill and Chelsea is four years old.  We like to travel, go shopping, and play together.

Ginna Smith

Grades K, 2, 4

For Students

Kids Against Bullying coloring book

Safety Tips for Kids from the FBI

Click on "Field Trip" to learn about ways to keep yourself safe.

Internet Safety Tips for Kids

Learn important ways to keep yourself safe on the computer.

McGruff the Crime Dog

Learn about safety tips from McGruff.

Learn about Careers!

Lots of information about all kinds of jobs.

Career Exploration Guide

Websites, Activities, and Coloring Books

For Parents

Care Team

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