Paws and Connect Slideshow
Welcome Back | Middle School Counseling 2026
Your Safe Space
Paws and Connect
Navigating 7th & 8th grade with support, purpose, and a little help from our favorite four-legged friend.
I'm glad you are here!
Let's check out what's new in school counseling this year.
Counseling Department Introduction
Slide 1 of 7
My Role as Your Counselor
Support & Guidance
How I Can Support You
I am here to help you succeed, feel safe, and belong.
Individual Space
A private, one-on-one space to talk about stress, class schedules, family, friendships, or any big feelings you're experiencing.
Confidential & Safe
Small Groups
Connect with peers facing similar experiences. Topics include coping skills, managing stress, changing families, and life transitions.
Connect with Others
Leadership Group
Build your peer leadership skills! Join our student-led initiatives to improve school culture, organize activities, and welcome new students.
Make a Difference
Paws and Connect Introduction
Slide 2 of 7
Our Location & Access
How to Visit
New Spot!
Back of the Library
Our cozy office has moved! You can now find us tucked away quietly in the back of the school library. It is quiet, comfortable, and a perfect escape when you need a breather.
When is a good time to visit?
Lunch, homeroom, elective periods, or any time with emergency teacher permission.
Visiting During Class?
1
Request a Pass First
Ask your teacher if it is a good time to head down to counseling.
2
Walk Quietly to the Library
Head straight to the back counseling room with your physical pass.
3
Check In and Reset
I will sign your pass so your teacher knows you arrived and departed safely.
Paws and Connect Introduction
Slide 3 of 7
Closed Door Policy
Always Connected
If the Door is Closed...
Sometimes I am in a meeting, in a classroom, or stepped away. You can still reach me!
Option 1: Canvas Message
Send me a quick direct message on Canvas. I check this throughout the school day and will reply to invite you down as soon as I am free.
Great for non-urgent topics
Option 2: Leave a Request Slip
Grab a counseling request slip next to my door. Fill it out completely and slip it into my secure mailbox slot on the wall.
Private & secure mailbox
Is this an emergency or a safety crisis?
Do not wait for a note. Tell a teacher immediately, or go straight to the main office front desk!
Paws and Connect Introduction
Slide 4 of 7
Meet Our Support Dog
Zeke's Working Guidelines
Official Staff
Zeke 🐾
School Support Dog in Training
Breed: Goldendoodle
Special Skill: Grounding hugs & gentle hand shakes
Favorite Spot: Counseling office rug
Zeke's Work Guidelines
Zeke is happy to see you, but he has an important job to do! Help keep Zeke and everyone else safe by following these simple protocols:
Look for the Working Vest
When Zeke is wearing his specialized vest, it means he is hard at work supporting students.
Always Ask Before Interacting
Always ask me (or his handler) before approaching, calling his name, or trying to pet him.
No Distractions, Please
When working, Zeke needs to focus on his student partner. Distracting him can prevent him from doing his job.
Paws and Connect Introduction
Slide 5 of 7
Connecting Our Community
Friendship Network Activity
QR Code Spot
Scan the QR Code
Or use the link posted on your Canvas home page
Quick Task
Rank Your Top 5 Friends
I want to ensure everyone has a positive peer network in their corner this year! Please take 2 minutes to list up to 5 of your favorite school friends in order.
Why are we doing this?
Create balanced and supportive group work
Form interactive small counseling cohorts
Help map seating charts with allies
Design peer leadership teams
*Your answers are confidential and only shared with the counselor to make your year better!
Paws and Connect Introduction
Slide 6 of 7
Exit Ticket Activity
Reflect & Design Your Year
Wrap-Up Task
Your "Paws and Reflect" Goal Sheet
As we close our welcome session, let's put our intentions on paper. Please grab your physical worksheet and complete the three simple steps.
1
Define Your 3 Focus Goals
Draft one meaningful goal for your Academics, Friendship Community, and Personal Well-Being.
2
Select Your Interests
Flip the sheet and check up to 3 workshops or counseling topics you'd love to explore this year.
3
Hand In on Your Way Out
This sheet is your exit ticket! Drop it in the bin by the door as you leave.
Goal Worksheet Guide
Exit Ticket
I will read every single response to customize our class workshops, group counseling times, and individual check-ins. Your voice directly shapes our program!
Let's Make This Your Best Year Yet!
I am so excited to work together.
Paws and Connect Introduction
Slide 7 of 7
Goal Reflection Worksheet
7th & 8th Grade Counseling
Paws and Reflect
Goal-setting and reflection for a wonderful school year.
Student Name
Grade / Advisory
Date
Setting goals helps us map out where we want to go. Take a few minutes to think about what you want to focus on this year. Write down your goals in the boxes below!
1. My Academic Focus
What is a class or skill you want to improve, or a learning habit you want to build this semester?
2. My Social & Friendship Focus
Who do you want to connect with, or what community/friendship skills do you want to nurture?
Safe Space Counseling Series Page 1 of 2
Paws and Reflect Part 2
3. My Personal & Well-Being Focus
What healthy habits or self-care tools do you want to practice? (E.g., managing stress, sleep, self-talk)
What topics interest you most?
Check any topics you might want to learn about in class workshops, small groups, or individual chats (select up to 3):
Managing stress & anxiety
Making & keeping friends
Organization & study skills
Preparing for high school
Conflict resolution / peace-making
Student leadership initiatives
Zeke's Golden Tip:
"Don't worry about being perfect! Just take one step at a time. If you ever feel stuck on your goals, come visit me in the back of the library!" — Zeke
Safe Space Counseling Series Page 2 of 2
