Counseling
Counselor's Corner
Fill out this form if you need to speak to a counselor! We will respond to your school email address so make sure you are checking it. The more detailed message you leave, the faster we can help you!
If your question is of a personal nature, or you simply prefer email communication, please email the counselors directly for assistance. LaKorcha Harper, Candace Anderson, and Eva Macaluso
Get to know your counselor
Your counselor is someone who you will want to get to know because he/she can assist you as you progress through middle school. Make an appointment to see your counselor.
Austin Academy School Counseling Vision
The students of Austin Academy for Excellence are a part of a diverse population that is prepared for future success in their life-long pursuits, ready to meet the challenges and high expectations of a global citizen. They are considerate, compassionate and empathetic citizens who work to provide a culture of continuous improvement by insuring equity for all. They are life-long learners who demonstrate resiliency and strive for greatness. They are critical thinkers who navigate the complexities of home, career and community.
Austin Academy School Counseling Mission Statement
The mission of the Austin Academy counseling program is to provide a comprehensive and preventative program addressing career awareness, academic success, self-worth, and social emotional resiliency for all students. School Counselors will advocate, collaborate and facilitate actions that promote personal and academic success to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world. We are key stakeholders in an effort to provide a safe and supportive environment in which students can grow academically, physically and emotionally. We strive to collaborate with parents, administrators, and teachers to meet all students’ needs.
What can my counselor do for me?
Counselors will help you by:
- reviewing your choice of subjects each spring during registration (February - April)
- helping solve academic scheduling problems
- providing study skills and academic information
- providing career and college information
- helping in teacher/student relationships
- helping cope with family issues
- listening to concerns about friends, etc.
- giving you information about life and decision-making skills
- referring you to people or places outside of school for help if necessary
- being your advocate – counselors are here for you!
Counselors for each campus are certified by the state of Texas in School Counseling, have a Master’s Degree, and previous teaching experience. Each middle school has two guidance counselors to help ensure that adequate support for helping students to succeed and meet their goals is available.
In addition, each middle school campus has a student services specialist - Responsive Services counselor. Campus Responsive Services counselors have had additional training in specialty areas to help students maintain and choose a healthy lifestyle. They provide counseling, support groups, presentations, prevention activities, classroom guidance, and crisis intervention for students.
Visit the district website for more information about the GISD Guidance & Counseling and Responsive Services.
Bullying
No student should be subjected to bullying or harassment that interferes with their ability to learn or their safety.
Visit the Bullying Prevention and Investigation page on the district website for more information and resources.
Anonymous Alerts®
You can use the Anonymous Alerts® webform or mobile app to quickly, easily and anonymously report bullying, cyberbullying and other sensitive topics to school officials.
Anonymous Alerts® is monitored by GISD Security 24-hours daily and should only be used for serious and urgent matters. In the event of an emergency or life-threatening event, always call 911.
Download the app
To place a report from a mobile device, first download the free Anonymous Alerts® app from the Apple App Store or Google Play store. Then open the app and enter activation code garlandisd.
Request accommodations for testing
Students with documented disabilities have the opportunity to request assistance for their tests in the form of an accommodation.
See the PSAT and SAT page on the district website for more information.