Veterans Day, November 9, 2023 will be a big deal at Ernest Ward. We will have a school-wide assembly in the gym and veterans will attend from around the area. Under the supervision of Mrs. Hughes, Ms. Bryan, Ms. Slater and Ms. Bachman, students are creating invitations to hand-deliver to veterans. The gym will be decorated in red, white, and blue. On that day, Mrs. Boulanger will welcome the students and visitors, Northview JROTC Color Guard will present Colors, FFA will lead in a moment of silence and a prayer, Drama will perform, SGA will present, the Band will perform, our Consumer Science Classes will present 2 large wreaths (1 to the oldest and the other to the youngest vet present that day), and the Patriot Guard will stand guard. Following the program, veterans will be invited to a reception in the lobby. Honor Society furnishes the refreshments. 

 

Veterans Day is a time to honor and remember the men and women who have served our country. It is also a unique opportunity to educate children about the sacrifices made by our veterans and the importance of knowing about Veterans Day and honoring our Veterans. Please prepare your students for this event by emphasizing patriotism, respect, freedom and a time for solemn occasions.

 

What is a Military & Family Life Counselor (MFLC)?
MFLCs help military families through cycles of deployment and reintegration by providing non-medical, short-term counseling. Through a partnership between Escambia School District, Ernest Ward Middle School and the office of the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Military Community and Family Policy, a counselor will be assigned to Ernest Ward Middle School during the school year.

How are counselors selected?
Counselors are selected for their demonstrated expertise and training and are under the management of the office of the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Military Community and Family Policy.  Counselors hold a master’s degree or a Ph.D., are licensed in their home states and have experience working with children and youth. Counselors go through rigorous background checks before being placed in schools.

Why are the counselors in certain schools and not others?
Schools were selected to receive MFLCs based on their percentage of military connected students.

What is the counselor’s role in the school?
Counselors will provide care that augments the support services already in place at each school. Counselors take part in everyday school activities and events and help with deployment and reintegration; family dynamics; positive coping mechanisms; staff support and education; parent education and stress reduction. Counselors are also available to facilitate groups and trainings to build leadership skills; manage anger; build self-esteem and confidence and strengthen communication.

Do counselors keep records about students and families?
No. Services provided by counselors are private and confidential with the exception of mandatory federal and military reporting requirements (i.e., child abuse, domestic violence and other life-threatening situations). No counseling records are maintained.

 

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