Who are the Patrick Counselors?

Mrs. Cowart is the counselor for grades Kindergarten, First, and Second. She has been a school counselor for 9 years.  She taught Art for 8 years prior to coming to Gwinnett.  Mrs. Cowart was recognized as the National Elementary School Counselor of the Year this past year.  She is married and enjoys working in her yard.

Mr. Ryan is the counselor for grades Third, Fourth, and Fifth. He has been with Gwinnett County Public Schools for 27 years.  He has taught 4th and 5th grades prior to becoming a school counselor.  This is 18th year as a school counselor. Mr. Ryan is married and has two high school daughters.

Please feel free to contact them anytime:

School Counseling Services at Patrick

Individual:
Individual sessions are scheduled with students as requested by students, parents, and teachers.

Classroom Guidance:
Classroom Guidance lessons will be scheduled in all grade levels throughout the year on a variety of topics including   Self Concept, Conflict Management, Study Skills, Personal Safety, Friendship, Peer Pressure, Bullying, and Careers.

Small Groups:
Small Groups are offered in the fall and winter.  These groups meet weekly for six to eight weeks with each session lasting 30 minutes.

*Self-concept:  K - 5
Students will have discussions and participate in activities which will create an awareness of their "specialness".  They will focus on their strengths and talents as well as recognize differences in people.

*Kid Success:  2 - 3
Students will take part in discussions and activities that address the following topics:
-dealing with disappointment
-managing moods
-fostering friendships
-standing up for oneself

*Family Changes:  K - 5
Students will participate in discussions and activities dealing with divorce, stepfamilies and blended families.

*Grief/Loss:  K - 5
Students will explore their feelings about the loss of a loved one.

*Academic Responsibility:  3 - 5
Students will learn strategies to effectively use their agendas and take part in activities to improve their understanding of the impact of daily work and work habits on their overall grades.

*Ready to Learn (School Skills):  1 – 2
Skills such as listening, asking for help and being responsible will be reinforced during these group sessions.

*Perfectionism: 3 - 5
Students will participate in activities and discuss ways to deal with perfectionism.  A focus will be placed on setting realistic goals, dealing with mistakes and failures, and learning ways to cope.

Other group topics as needed.

Parent Support
Parent Consultation is available upon request.
Parent Workshops are offered on a variety of topics including Parenting for Academic Success, Effective Discipline, Developing Responsibility, and Building Self Confidence.