CCG Program Improvement Project: Closing the Gap

1. CCG Program Improvement Project: Closing the Gap April 14, 2011

2. Rationale Targeted Students: • Low GPA • Number of write-ups on Discipline Tracker • Poor Coping Skills • Friendship Issues • Low Self-Esteem • Organization Problems • Attention Deficit

3. Abstract SmallGroup Counseling: “Does it promote good behavior and improved academics?” After reviewing a Comprehensive Guidance Counseling needs assessment, it was determined that TH Bell Junior High School was in need of small group counseling. The target group was chosen after looking at poor grades and write-up referrals for discipline. Most of the referrals were made expressing the students need for coping skills, attention deficits, friendship issues and disruptive behavior in the classroom. After careful consideration 13 students were selected. 8 students were male, 5 students were female. The students were selected from grades 7-9. And there were two different start dates for the sessions. The purpose for gathering this group of students together was to teach coping skills, to promote better classroom behavior and improve grades. The students were first asked if they would like to be a part of the group along with signed parent permission forms. The students were involved in 7 sessions of group counseling, with a variety of topics that all promote personal and school improvement. When sessions were completed the students were asked questions what they learned and if they would use the tools and guidelines that were given to them. Data was gathered according to student grades and the number of write-ups. Data was reviewed to see if any progress and improvements where made over the school year. The desired end result for group counseling is that the student would have fewer write-ups and possibly improved grades. The results concluded that some students improved their grades and some improved their behavior in the classroom. However the intervention of group counseling is not solely responsible for the improvements.

4. Project Description • Students participated in 7 sessions of counseling in the following areas: • Conflict Resolution • Organizational Skills • Self-Esteem • Dealing with Stress and Anger • Communication with Peers and Teachers • Bullying • Friendship and Sharing

5. DATA Collection • Term Grades • Discipline Tracking System • Group Counseling Interview Questions • 1. What did you expect to learn by attending group counseling? • 2. The topics discussed in group were easy for me to understand? • 3. Everyone in the group worked well together, and there were no problems? • 4. Will you use the tools and guidelines that you learned about, in group counseling? • 5. What did you learn in counseling group, that you liked the best?

6. Results- GPA Students Grade Point Average for first 3 Quarters

7. Results- Write-ups Students Number of Write-ups for first 3 Quarters

8. Results- Questions- most common responses What did you expect to learn by attending group counseling? Learn how to control my anger. 2. The topics discussed in group were easy for me to understand? 3. Everyone in the group worked well together, and there were no problems? 4. Will you use the tools and guidelines that you learned about, in group counseling? What did you learn in counseling group, that you liked the best? I learned that everyone has problems and I can learn to deal with my problems.

9. Discussion and Recommendations • Other variables • Continue group counseling