![]() ![]() She uses exercises like the circles of control, which asks students to distinguish between things that are outside their control, and things they have the power to change. "So it's just reteaching what we can do when we don't have control over something and how we regain control and regulation over our own feelings and emotions." ![]() Pandemic or not, Draughn says, a lack of control is something young people often struggle with, and it can lead to some big feelings, even outbursts. "You're creating a habit, ultimately."Īnd habits can help give students a sense of control. "Those successes in small ways can lead to big impacts," she explains. She begins the day with a "check-in," where students share what they'd like to accomplish, and ends it with a "check-out" to see if they met their goals. One way she likes to build consistent habits for students is by setting goals, big or small, like being respectful or following directions. Draughn says rebuilding routine takes time and consistency. The pandemic disrupted everybody's daily routines, and that lack of structure was especially difficult for children. "I think a lot of people focus on trauma changing the brain.but what they miss is that healing changes it as well."ĭraughn has this advice for how educators and families can support their students as they navigate the transition to "post-pandemic" life:Įstablish regular routines and a sense of control But she says there is an upside to all those challenges. All things Draughn has seen in her school, too. Many students have struggled with mental health, academics and a general lack of connection to their classroom. Masking is optional in most schools quarantine regulations have been loosened and in May, the Biden administration plans to declare an end to the COVID-19 public health emergency.īut children are still reeling from what they experienced during the pandemic. The award comes at a pivotal time for Draughn: in the middle of the most "normal" school year since the pandemic began. The selection committee praised Draughn's data-driven approach and passion for her students. Everett Jordan Elementary School in the rural town of Graham, N.C., and she was recently named 2023's School Counselor of the Year by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA). Research shows that that helps us build a positive culture and a welcoming culture."ĭraughn works at B. And greeting them by name is one way we can do that. "Kids want to feel known and want to feel loved. There are about 350 of them, and she knows all their names. School counselor Meredith Draughn starts every day by greeting the students who fill her campus hallways, cup of coffee in hand. ![]()
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