Email: slsayavongsa@garlandisd.net

Social Emotional Learning

Social and emotional learning (SEL) is a priority at Hillside Academy because it teaches our students vital skills they will need throughout their lives. SEL also promotes a sense of community within the classroom and the school environment. 

SEL focuses on the development of important skills including understanding and managing emotions, setting and achieving positive goals, feeling and showing empathy for others, establishing and maintaining positive relationships, and making responsible decisions.

What can my counselor do for me?

Counselors will help you by:

• providing study skills and academic information

• help 5th grade students with middle school registration

• 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 elementary school has a guidance counselor to help ensure that adequate support for helping students to succeed and meet their goals is available.

Visit the district website for more information about the GISD Guidance & Counseling programs

School Counselors help students by:

• Creating and teaching school-wide classroom lessons that focus on academic, career, and social/emotional skills

• Working with small groups of students to meet specific needs and practice skills  

• Assisting students in goal-setting and decision making

• Providing responsive services for crisis intervention, conflict resolution, and specific concerns through small group or individual counseling. 

Helpful Parenting Websites