Within Wichita State University's ISLE (Intervention Services & Leadership in Education) department, a transformative initiative is taking shape to bolster School Counseling Graduate students during their critical practicum and internship semesters. Driven by the collaborative efforts of Dr. Christie Henderson and Dr. Lyndsey Brown, counselor educators and assistant professors in ISLE, the ISLE School Counseling Closet has emerged as a beacon of support and innovation.
A Valuable Resource for Growth
The ISLE School Counseling Closet stands as a dedicated haven for research-based school counseling materials. These carefully selected resources are tailored to enhance students' hands-on experiences in real-world settings. From comprehensive trade books and curriculum materials to interactive tools such as thumb balls, counseling games, mobile sand trays, and targeted resources for addressing anxiety and focus challenges, this closet is a dynamic collection designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Supporting Student Journeys
The journey of the ISLE School Counseling Closet began with the securing of a grant in the spring, and its fruition arrived over the summer months. As the resources took physical form, Dr. Henderson and Dr. Brown have been meticulously refining an accessible checkout system, ensuring that students can effortlessly engage with these enriching materials.
As students embark on their practicum and internship experiences, they will be welcomed into the world of the ISLE School Counseling Closet during their initial days. Dr. Henderson and Dr. Brown have transformed their office into a vibrant hub of resources. Here, students will gain insights into the diverse tools available, grasp the logistics of the checkout process, and start envisioning innovative ways to seamlessly integrate these resources into their counseling practices.
Cultivating Purposeful Impact
The heart of the ISLE School Counseling Closet beats with a deep commitment to fostering positive change. With a comprehensive array of resources that cater to students across all grade levels, this initiative empowers future school counselors to tailor their approaches to suit varying needs. This hands-on exposure enables students to discern effective strategies for their unique contexts and lays the groundwork for their future careers.
The ISLE School Counseling Closet stands as a testament to collaborative dedication. The partnership between Dr. Henderson and Dr. Brown exemplifies their shared vision for nurturing the next generation of adept and empathetic school counselors. With each resource checked out, each tool explored, and each intervention implemented, the ripple effects of this initiative will reverberate through the educational landscape, fostering a culture of effective counseling and unwavering support.