School Based Mental Health Services

(If this is a Mental Health Emergency, Please Call 911.)

The Role of School Counselors

Introduction:

School counselors play a vital role in our educational community, providing essential support to students, parents, and staff. Their primary focus is on helping students achieve academic success, personal growth, and emotional well-being during their school years. It's important to note that while school counselors provide valuable assistance, they are not a substitute for long-term therapy or mental health treatment.

Academic Guidance:

One of the key functions of school counselors is to assist students in developing their academic potential. They help students set and achieve educational goals, and make informed decisions about their academic futures. They also provide guidance on study skills, time management, and test-taking strategies.

Personal and Social Support:

School counselors are here to support students in their personal and social development. They provide a safe and confidential space for students to discuss issues such as peer relationships, family concerns, and emotional challenges. Counselors offer guidance and strategies to help students navigate these issues and develop crucial life skills like conflict resolution and communication.

Crisis Intervention:

In times of crisis or emergencies, school counselors are trained to provide immediate support and assistance. They work closely with students, families, and school staff to address critical situations and ensure the safety and well-being of all students.

Mental Health Awareness:

While school counselors can offer support for emotional and mental health concerns, it's important to remember that they are not a replacement for long-term therapy. They can provide short-term counseling and referrals to external mental health professionals when necessary. Recognizing the limits of their role, they prioritize students' best interests and well-being above all else.

Collaboration with Parents and Staff:

School counselors collaborate with parents, teachers, and administrators to create a positive and supportive school environment. They work as part of a team to address students' needs and ensure their success.

In summary, school counselors play a multifaceted role in our educational community, focusing on academic, personal, and social development. While they offer valuable support for various challenges students may face, it's crucial to understand that they are not a substitute for long-term therapy. If students require ongoing mental health treatment, school counselors will provide referrals to appropriate professionals. Our counselors are committed to nurturing the well-being and growth of every student, helping them navigate the challenges of school and life beyond.

School Counselors at James Irwin Charter Schools:

Grace Brueggemann:

Mrs. Grace Brueggemann first started her journey with James Irwin in 2008 as a freshman in high school. After graduating from JICHS, PPCC (now PPSC) and Liberty University, she returned to James Irwin to work as an English Teacher. Having completed her Master's in Counseling from Adams State College, Grace is now the Manager of the School Based Mental Health Services Department for all 4 JICS Campuses, as well as the onsite counselor for JICES-A and JICHS. She also teaches AP Psychology and AP English at James Irwin Charter High School.

Nicole Scott:

Nicole “Nikki” Scott first started her 17-year journey with James Irwin in 2007 as a teacher’s assistant in kindergarten and first grade at James Irwin Elementary - Astrozon. She remained in this position for 5 years, supporting teachers and students with classroom instruction before becoming Dean of Students. For the next 10 years, she worked closely with students, parents, and staff, supporting the character development of JIES-A students. When an opportunity arose to support students at James Irwin Charter High School, Mrs. Scott started a position working in the library, as well as supporting students as the Health Aide. She then returned to supporting students, parents, and staff, assisting the Dean of Students as Dean Assistant. Finally, she is now supporting the the School Based Mental Health Services for all James Irwin Charter Schools as the department assistant.

Eleanor McConnell:

As Eleanor McConnell progresses towards her Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Colorado Christian University, she is excited to bring her fresh perspective and extensive experience to the students at James Irwin Charter Schools. Eleanor's background is distinguished by her unwavering dedication to walking alongside children of all ages who face a range of mental health challenges. Her hands-on experience and empathetic approach have honed her ability to provide effective support and guidance, helping students build resilience, self-esteem, and overall wellbeing. Committed to fostering a nurturing, safe, and supportive environment, Eleanor aims to empower each student to achieve success both academically and personally.

Miranda Lening:

Miranda Lening graduated from CSU Pueblo with her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and then earned her Master’s Degree in School Counseling from Walden University. Her degree carries two areas of emphasis in both Military Family Culture and Trauma & Crisis Response. Before coming to James Irwin, Mrs. Lening was a school counselor for several years in a Title 1 elementary school in Widefield. Aside from the counseling background that led her here, her role as the head cheerleading coach at JICHS is what initially sparked her interest in our School Based Mental Health Services department. With two kids in the preschool, her role as a coach, and her profession as a counselor, she is excited to finally make JI her home!