Heather Flinton
Counselor

       I am looking forward to another year at Rose Union Elementary. Prior to joining the staff at Rose Union, I was the counselor at our sister school Deer Creek Elementary. When the opportunity to join the staff at Rose Union presented itself, I felt it would be a wonderful chance to grow professionally. As the Rose Union counselor, one of my goals is to help your child understand what a counselor does in a school setting, what we will discuss and learn about during guidance lessons in the classroom and how I can assist them if they need help or a friendly face at school. I facilitate student development and build relationships to promote a positive climate. My vision is to be constantly working towards providing a comprehensive counseling program that meets the needs of the entire school community.

      “Second Step” and “Steps to Respect” have been excellent tools for guiding children in the area of personal and social development. Specifically, the programs help students learn to manage their emotions, build friendships, and problem-solve in everyday peer situations. Both programs support the school anti-bullying policy. Other topics that are covered during guidance sessions include career education, positive character traits, and drug free lessons that are appropriate to the developmental age of each grade level. Small groups are offered during the school year as well. Groups objectives are to: reinforce social skills, self-esteem, study skills, and/or assist children in a changing family. Children can qualify for a small group at the request of a parent or teacher. Information concerning group times and sessions is sent home through the child’s teacher or the school newsletter. Individual counseling is offered as well. Calm Waters partners with our school each year to provide counseling for students with a recent death in the family, a divorce or a parent that has been deployed overseas.

        I sponsor the Antler Ambassador program. The program provides leadership opportunities for our fifth grade students. Students have the chance to serve our school and act as role models for all students at Rose Union. For more information on our Antler Ambassador program please visit other areas of the Rose Union website.

       Professionally, my background includes graduating from Oklahoma State University with a Bachelors degree in both elementary and special education. I taught children with multiple disabilities for seven years. I hold a Masters degree in guidance and counseling from the University of Central Oklahoma. I began my counseling career at Deer Creek Elementary in 2000. I achieved National Board Certification in the area of School Counseling in November of 2006. Most recently, I have had the opportunity to attend the Professional Learning Communities Conference in Washington, D.C.