Hello from your child’s School Counselors, Tandy Dickens and Nicole Whitehead. We are delighted to introduce ourselves as the Carl Junction Primary EC/K-1 School Counselors.

A tidbit about Mrs. Dickens: I have a wonderful husband, Tony, and four terrific kids. I was born and raised in the Carl Junction School District, and I am a class of 1999 alumna. I completed my undergraduate degree at Palm Beach Atlantic University in West Palm Beach, Florida before transferring back to Pittsburg State University where I completed my teaching certification and Masters in Physical Education. I completed my Masters in School Counseling through Lindenwood University. This is my twelfth year in education and my fourth year working in the district as a school counselor. I love what I do and it is a joy working with your child every day.

A tidbit about Mrs. Whitehead: Hello! I am so excited for another fantastic school year! I absolutely adore my family. My husband is also an educator in the district, and we are excited to welcome our first child, a boy, in late November! I am originally from Flowery Branch, Georgia, and visit frequently as my family lives there. I attended the University of Arkansas (Go Hogs!!!) for most of my undergraduate education. I then transferred to Missouri Southern State University, where I graduated with a Bachelors in Elementary Education. I received my Masters in School Counseling from Lindenwood University. This is my sixth year in education, and fifth year as a school counselor. I am beyond blessed that school counseling is my passion, and I look forward to getting to know the students and families of Carl Junction!

Part of a school counselor’s job is to work one-on-one and in small groups with students to assist in their development of social and emotional skills, study/academic skills, and behavior modification. There are times when a counselor may meet with your child to discuss one of these topics, read a book, play a game or work on a project to reinforce the students’ roles and expectations in the school setting. Because counseling is based on a trusting relationship between counselor and student, the counselor will keep information shared by the student confidential except in certain situations in which an ethical responsibility limits confidentiality or in instances where the student gives the counselor permission to share with specific individuals. You will be notified under the following circumstances:

1. The student reveals information about hurting himself/herself or another person.

2. The student or another person may be in physical danger.

3. The student has concerns or has shared information which he/she has given permission for the counselor to share.

If you have anything you would like to share with us to help us better meet the academic and social/emotional needs of your child, please call 417-649-7045 or email tdickens@cjr1.org or nwhitehead@cjr1.org . In addition, you may always set up a time to meet with one of the counselors.