Dr. Corliss Thompson Drew- Creating Relationships- 35 years

Dr. Corliss Thompson Drew- the leader of all of us crazy, passionate and driven people is celebrating 35 years as a School Psychologist this year. When reflecting on the years she remarked that "There are a host of people, a village, that have supported, encouraged, and helped me to get where I am today." With feeling the support of others, Dr. Thompson Drew also wants to support and impact our students. She writes "I feel a responsibility to pay that forward and lend a hand to others. I have been a mentor to high school students for several years and find that I learn as much from them as they do from me. Sometimes it’s challenging but it’s always rewarding, especially when I see them accomplish goals that they set." 

 When discussing what small steps are needed to change our students lives, she believes forming relationships and having communication with families is key. " In my career, it has always been important to spend time meeting with and talking with parents. I have found it very valuable to establish that relationship early on and to be an advocate. Many times, it’s just being there to listen, to hear their story. It’s in the telling of their story that I can connect with parents and support them in a way that is personalized and meet their needs."

 A change that she has experienced in her career as a school psychologist is the increase in number and intensity of the students behavioral health issues. In order to successfully tackle this raising issue, she believes "we must understand the social emotional needs of kids and how they impact their academic achievement and overall adjustment." Much work has been accomplished in this area of need, but there is still more that needs to be done to support our students. 

 Dr. Thompson Drew believes we can get there and would like "to see our district develop a comprehensive safe school plan that incorporates programs, resources, services, and activities that promote a positive, safe school climate." 

 She not only stands up for students and our parents but also for us as a department. She supports us and believes in our ability to provide the best services we can to the communities we serve. She also pushes us and strives for us to reach new goals. She stated  "Additionally, I would like to see that school psychologists are truly able to provide comprehensive psychological services for all students."

 Thank you for all visible and invisible things you do to support us all! Happy 35 years. 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

September is National Suicide Prevention Month

Image
This month, we want to take time to remember those who have lost their lives to suicide, those who have struggled with suicidal ideation, and acknowledge all of those who have been impacted.  Why is this work important? According to the CDC, in 2021, there were 48,183 deaths by suicide in the United States, which is equivalent to 1 death every 11 minutes. 1.7 million adults attempted suicide. In 2021, the suicide rate among males was approximately four times higher than the rate among females. Males make up 50% of the population but nearly 80% of suicides. In North Carolina, suicide is the second leading cause of death in ages 10-18. There was a 94% increase in youth suicide from 2011-2020.  Suicide can be prevented by recognizing signs, learning how to help, and taking steps to help those in need. Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Student Services Department has a district protocol to respond to and manage suicide risk.   Firearms are the most common method used, at more than 50%,
Read more

Random Acts of Kindness Week is February 11-17, 2024

Image
  Although Random Acts of Kindness week will be celebrated next week, the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation has provided a calendar for the 2023-2024 school year; that's 365 ideas of ways to spread kindness. They also provide a variety of resources for spreading kindness at school, at home, and at work, including a 2024 calendar for adults to spread kindness at work throughout the year.  Additionally, the Social Emotional Learning and Restorative Practices department has compiled a Random Acts of Kindness resource folder that includes lesson plans, kindness activities, announcements, book lists, and more.  Join the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation in their effort to make kindness the norm, not just next week, but all year long! 
Read more

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

Image
  According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year and only half of them receive treatment. NAMI is dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. They have more than 700 NAMI State Organizations and Affiliates who work to raise awareness and provide support and education to those in need. You can visit their website to find your local NAMI.  NAMI also actively participates in Mental Health Awareness Month to eradicate stigma, extend support, foster public education, and advocate for policies that prioritize the well-being of individuals and families affected by mental illness. Join their Take the Moment campaign to promote open dialogues, and cultivate empathy and understanding. They have provided a toolkit with more information on the campaign including how to spread awareness, social media content, graphics to share, and facts.   NAMI provides a Teen & Young Adult He
Read more