Counseling
Contact you counselor
Middle school can challenging for both students and parents. The middle school years are filled with developmental milestones and academic expectations that can feel overwhelming. We want you to know that your counselor is here to help you navigate the next three years. We are professional educators with a mental health perspective who understand middle school students.
Get to know your counselors
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.
Counselor for students A through M Gonzalez
Phone: (972) 494-8391 ext. 50217
Counselor to students N. Gonzalez through Pal
Phone: (972) 494-8391 ext. 50221
Counselor to students Pam through Z
Lavashia Graham
Phone: (972) 494-8391 ext. 50220
Mission statement
The counseling department at Bussey Middle School is dedicated to preparing students for college readiness and overall success by providing access and equity to all. We will collaborate with teachers, parents, students, and stakeholders to ensure that every students is given opportunities to reach their full academic potential in the present and future, while also addressing their social and individual needs with the upmost support and care.
Vision statement
Students will have the academic and social training to succeed in college, career, military, and life.
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 Responsive Service counselor. Campus Responsive Service 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 Service programs.
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.