OZARK Junior High

Welcome to the Ozark Junior High Counselor’s page.  My name is Brenda Beard and I have been the JH counselor for over 13 years.  I am here to help your children with academic goals, social emotional well-being and provide and welcoming and safe place for them to learn.  

Frequently Asked Questions

What do school counselors do?

• Work with individuals and groups
• Help identify needs of students
• Encourage better interpersonal relationships
• Promote positive attitudes and choices
• Aid teachers and parents in helping students
• Assist people in making use of community resources
• Coordinate referrals to outside agencies
• Assist students with the process of growing up
• Coordinate efforts with other school programs
• Provide preventative services
• Maintain confidentiality

Why do students visit their school counselor?

Here are just a few reasons a student might want to talk to the School Counselor:​

• “I’m getting picked on at the bus stop and I don’t know what to do about it.”
• “My best friend isn’t talking to me and it’s making me really sad.”
• “I want to show you what I just made in art. I’m very proud of it.”
• “I’m new to this school, and I’m really scared.”
• “I just want to talk to someone who won’t laugh at me.”
• “I did a lot better on my last math test, and I’m so excited to tell someone!”
• “Lisa, Carol and I had a problem at recess. Can you help us work it out?”

Why do parents contact their school counselor?

Here are just a few resaons a parent might want to talk to the School Counselor:​

• “Sarah doesn’t want to go to school in the mornings.”
• “I’m concerned because Allen keeps telling me he doesn’t have any friends.”
• “We recently had a death in the family, and I’m not sure how to tell my child.”
• “Kevin has difficulty going to sleep at night and often has nightmares.”
• “My wife and I are going through a divorce and we’re not sure how to handle things with the kids.”
• “Jason seems to get really frustrated doing his homework and nothing I say seems to help.”

ATTENDANCE IS IMPORTANT!

• Set a regular bed time and morning routine
• Lay out clothes and pack backpacks the night before
• Find out what time school starts and make sure you have all required shots
• Don't let you child stay home unless truly sick
• If your child seems anxious about school, talk to teacher, school counselors, or other parents for advice
• Avoid vacations when school is in session

 Office Hours and Contact Information:

Ozark Junior High:  7:40 - 3:30

Brenda.Beard@ozarkhillbillies.org

Phone number: (479) 667-4747