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This is a closed group where discussions will be made with the middle school (6th - 8th grade) girls’ self-esteem, while focusing on how each of them has unique strengths and qualities. There will be opportunity to explore ways to build confidence and embrace their individuality, while emphasizing the importance of kindness towards themselves and others.

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Mindset:

M 1. Belief in development of whole self, including a healthy balance of mental, social/emotional and physical well-being

M 2. Sense of acceptance, respect, support and inclusion for self and others in the school environment

M 3. Positive attitude toward work and learning

M 4. Self-confidence in ability to succeed

M 5. Belief in using abilities to their fullest to achieve high-quality results and outcomes

Behaviors:

B-SMS 1. Responsibility for self and actions

B-SMS 2. Self-discipline and self-control

B-SS 2. Positive, respectful and supportive relationships with students who are similar to and different from them

B-LS 4. Self-motivation and self- direction for learning

B-SS 4. Empathy

B-SMS 5. Perseverance to achieve longand short-term goals

B-SS 5. Ethical decision-making and social responsibility

B-SMS 6. Ability to identify and overcome barriers

B-LS 7. Long- and short-term academic, career and social/emotional goals

B-SMS 7. Effective coping skills

B-SMS 8. Balance of school, home and community activities

B-SS 8. Advocacy skills for self and others and ability to assert self, when necessary

B-SMS 9. Personal safety skills

B-SS 9. Social maturity and behaviors appropriate to the situation and environment

B-SMS 10. Ability to manage transitions and adapt to change

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In order to ensure all students and parents are aware of 'Be The Light,' I plan to use a mix of communication strategies: design and distribute eye-catching flyers in school areas and classrooms, include details in newsletters and targeted emails, and create a dedicated page on the school website. While also, promoting the group through social media, chapel small groups, and posters in common areas and classrooms. Combining these approaches will ensure broad and effective communication.

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Prescreen students for the middle school girls' counseling group by assessing their needs and goals, conducting individual interviews to determine their readiness, and consulting with teachers and parents for additional insights. By evaluating the responses of the students and discussing their motivations and expectations, you can determine whether or not the group is a good fit for the individual. Once the group has begun making necessary adjustments, monitor their progress.

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Our campus does not have any consent or assent forms in place for our students or their parents. In our school, there is no counselor in place currently, however my principal and I have discussed putting one in place as soon as possible as I am currently the 'student life coordinator' who provides counseling as well as other services. The attached form provides a great guideline for parents and participants to follow

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The group will have three basic rules until the first session where additional rules by the group will be set.

1. Respect one another.

2. Confidentiality

3. Sharing is not required unless you choose to.

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Participatory leadership will be most beneficial to this group. It would be most beneficial to approach self-esteem issues cautiously and to work with students by offering them guidance, participating in activities and discussions, and supporting them as they lead conversations.

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The first Yalom's Therapeutic Factor that will be present in every group session is universality. Girls who struggle with negative self-image are likely to benefit from the group sessions, which will unite them and make them feel understood and supported. Altruism is another factor that might be present. The goal of Be The Light is to provide girls with a platform where they can build each other up. Eventually, the girls will be able to practice their skills on their own.

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Following the Texas Administrative Code, professional school counselors must meet certain requirements. In the Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs, the licensed school counselor must provide counseling to individuals and small groups using appropriate counseling theories and techniques according to Standard 2 of section 239.15. With this particular standard, I must watch the theories and techniques that I will bring in our group sessions within 'Be The Light.'

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Texas Education Code § 33.005 requires school counselors to create and implement a comprehensive counseling program that supports students' academic, career, and personal needs. While maintaining confidentiality and using data to improve their services, counselors must provide individual and group counseling, provide classroom guidance, and work with educators and parents. As part of the code, it is also emphasized that it is important to advocate for the needs and health of students. There is no doubt that this group will support students' personal needs while maintaining their confidentiality.

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ASCA Student Standards: Mindsets & Behaviors for Student Success. (n.d.). American School Counselor Association. https://www.schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/7428a787-a452-4abb-afec-d78ec77870cd/Mindsets-Behaviors.pdf

Yalom ID. (1995). The theory and practice of group psychotherapy (4th ed.). New York: Basic Books.