North Charleston School Counselor Seeks Support for Students’ Mental Health
North Charleston, S.C.— A dedicated mental health counselor at Allegro Charter School of Music is on a mission to provide comfort and support to her students. Constance Goodnight, the school’s Internal Mental Health Counselor, emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming environment for students, families, and faculty. “I have a purpose when I come to school every day, and I want these kids to feel loved and supported every time they come through the door,” she states.
Counseling Beyond the Classroom
Goodnight’s role extends beyond just counseling students; she also supports their families and fellow teachers. Her office is designed to be a safe haven for everyone who enters. “I wanted to make sure this room felt like home,” she adds. The space features cozy corners and fidget toys, which help foster open and honest conversations about sensitive topics.
Tools for Comfort and Focus
Small sensory gadgets play a significant role in Goodnight’s approach to emotional and mental well-being. According to her, these items can enhance focus, reduce anxiety, and provide emotional relief. “When they come in here and sit on the couch or sit in the corner and grab one of the sensory toys, it helps them regulate their nervous system to the point where they can feel calm and be able to open up more,” she explains.
Funding Challenges for Mental Health Support
Despite her dedication, Goodnight faces challenges in acquiring necessary supplies due to funding limitations. As an internal counselor, she does not receive the same financial incentives as other teachers at the beginning of the school year. “We really care about the student and we care about their families and really want the best for them,” she states.
Specific Needs and Upcoming Initiatives
To enhance her counseling services, Goodnight is actively seeking donations for essential materials such as health management books, calm strips, conversation cards, and various fidget toys. These resources aim to help students better manage their emotions in the classroom. “The more time that they are moving, it helps decrease the nervous system to the point where they are able to regulate their emotions and they can be calm,” she adds, highlighting the positive impact these tools can have on students’ mental health.
How the Community Can Help
Members of the community are encouraged to support Goodnight’s efforts through donations. An initiative is currently in place, allowing individuals to contribute directly to her project by December 1. The funds gathered will be used to purchase items on her wish list, which will then be sent directly to her. “Donors Choose collects the money, purchases the items the teacher has requested, and sends them directly to the teacher,” Goodnight clarifies, underscoring that all donations are tax-deductible.
Final Thoughts
Goodnight’s initiatives reflect a deep commitment to nurturing emotional health and well-being among students within North Charleston’s educational landscape. By providing access to vital resources, she aims to foster an environment where students feel safe and supported. Community involvement is crucial, and together, they can make a significant impact on the lives of these young individuals.
