Karen Hosking

Karen Hosking
Your School Counselor

hoskingka@watertownctschools.org

For the first time in your school lives, you and your child will be introduced to an additional resource person: The School Counselor. I am one of three School Counselors at Swift Middle School. You will know me by my initials (KH), which will appear on school documents such as your child’s report card and schedule. Your child is assigned a counselor based on their team. This year, I am the counselor in sixth grade for the Red team, in seventh grade for the Blue and  Navy teams and in eighth grade, I am also the counselor for the Navy team .

What I feel is most important to remember is that I am only a phone call away.  Please call anytime at 860 945-4830  x304.

Why would you or your child ever need to speak with a School Counselor?  

I am there to help sort out problems. Some concerns that are typical during adolesence may be related to academics, peer relationships or peer pressure and/or social or behavioral issues.  Together we can discuss your feelings and needs, explore options, and reach decisions. I attend at least one team meeting per week, so I am a natural liaison between home and school. I can also help coordinate support in school such as: -parent/teacher conferences -academic support,(ex. peer tutoring through the Honor Society) -small group meetings or any other necessary interventions.  I also work closely with our administrators, other school counselors, the school psychologists, and at times, the nurse to coordinate services for students in need.

In addition, with Mrs. Ayer and Mrs. Dorso, I may coordinate school programs or events such as workshops,  high school orientations and visits, and career exploration opportunities, just to name a few . When needed, I may make referrals to other helping groups.

At Swift, the School Counselors teach Developmental Guidance lessons in all three grades. This  allows me to get to know every student on my three teams during the school year. I will continue to work hard to make connections with my students and to dispel the old stereotype that seeing your counselor has a stigma attached to it. I want to help and be involved with you and your child. This will reinforce the goal of our program, which is to help your child reach their full potential and enjoy their time here at Swift.

updated 10/14/08