Guidance & Counseling

Tyler ISD Counselors - Connected

In an effort to stay as connected as possible to our students, Tyler ISD Counselors have created virtual counseling centers for each campus.  This will allow parents, teachers, and students to request a check in from their counselor, as well as provide resources and information. You can access the counselors by visiting the campus counselor’s webpage and completing a counseling referral.  We recognize that not all students have internet access, and you may call the campus to contact the counselor. The counselors will be reaching out in a variety of ways to connect with their students. Tyler ISD Counselors are available and committed to providing the best support for our students.

Guidance & Counseling Services

The Guidance and Counseling Services Department is an integral part of the total educational program. It provides a systematic, planned approach for helping all students acquire and apply basic life skills and makes optimal use of the special knowledge and skills of school counselors. The guidance and counseling program provides developmentally appropriate assistance for all students, and at the same time provide special assistance to those who need it. Tyler ISD professional school counselors support the efforts of teachers, staff, parents and other members of the community in promoting the educational, career, personal and social development of students.

Professional school counselors have specialized training and are committed to providing the help and support we may need to master the challenges of life. The Tyler ISD counselors are committed to the success and healthy development of students through the support services they provide. Counselors work together with all Tyler ISD educators to build a dynamic learning community on every campus. Counseling services are available to any student unless specifically prohibited by written request from the parent or guardian. Parent permission is required for participation in group counseling.

Counselors guide students toward success by serving as a strong connection for the many resources within the school district and the numerous community resources available in the East Texas area. As members of the Tyler ISD educational team counselors are dedicated to helping all students achieve their target of graduation.

The goal of graduation begins in pre-kindergarten and continues through twelfth grade. Counselors serve as valuable guides throughout this journey and provide direction along the path in the areas of:

  • Academic success

  • College and Career Awareness

  • Individual Planning

  • Guidance Curriculum

  • Responsive Services

As parents, you also have the right to preview all the written materials used in the school counseling program. For full information, please contact your school principal or counselor.

How Internet Use and Social Media Affect Children's Mental Health

Contacts

Lauri Anderson
Director
903.262.3156

Valerie Ford
Executive Assistant
903.262.1007

Student Anxiety

In this episode, we sit down with Lauri Anderson, Director of Guidance and Counseling, for an important conversation about student anxiety. She dives into the root causes, the growing impact of technology and social media, and—most importantly—what parents need to know and how they can help. This is a must-listen if you're a parent, educator, or anyone who cares about student well-being! Tune in now!

Parents: Should Your Child Repeat a Grade or Course?

If you believe your child needs to repeat a grade or course, you as a parent have the right to make this decision but you must act quickly.

The Texas Legislature has given parents rights to make this decision for the upcoming school year. The decision as to whether your child needs to repeat a grade or course in the upcoming school year is your decision to make as a parent.

You must tell your school in writing before the start of the school year. Check your school's calendar to make sure you know when school starts for the next school year. Make your request in writing to the school principal. Unless your school gives you different instructions, you can use one of the following forms to submit your request:

High School Course Repeat Request

1-8 Grade Repeat Request

If your school does not agree with your decision, they may bring together a committee to meet with you to talk about your decision. After you meet with the committee, you, the parent, will make the final decision whether your student will repeat a grade or course, and the school must honor your decision.

Ask your school what additional supports such as tutoring and after school or out-of-school academic opportunities are available to your student.