At Clague Middle School, quick counselor check-ins create a culture of support

Quick, accessible “Minute Meetings” sessions remind students they can access counselors easily.

Clague Middle School’s new ‘Minute Meetings’ program ensures that all the nearly 700 students know exactly where to turn for school counselor support.

The concept is simple: each student spends just a minute or so with a school counselor in a brief, no-pressure introduction. During these quick check-ins, counselors share where their offices are located and when they’re available, and then learn a bit about the students.

Sixth grade counselor Krista Dezsi says the brief meetings are especially helpful for sixth graders who are new to the building.

“It really gives me an opportunity to put faces to names and to know a little bit more about the students,” she said.

The goal isn’t to solve problems or dive deep into the student’s life but to put a friendly face on the resources available and break down any intimidation students might feel about seeking help. The response from students has been positive, the counselors say. While some are hesitant to say much in such a brief meeting, they now can put a face to their counselors’ names and know who to approach if a challenge arises. 

Principal Crystal Fluker says the Minute Meetings have helped students feel a part of a small community within a large school.

“This has been a great way for students to feel connected,” she says.

Krista Dezsi gets acquainted with a Clague sixth grader during a recent Minute Meeting.