Guidance Counselor

Olney Elementary School Guidance Counselor Welcomes You

The goal of the guidance counselor is to provide a comprehensive program in which our students, families, staff and community may grow together and support one another in a safe and secure environment.

Counseling, consulting, and providing information are services provided with the intent of helping students demonstrate personal and academic growth, have positive, productive interactions with others and make appropriate educational and career decisions.

Counseling is provided through classroom lessons and activities with all students. However, students with particular concerns may work in a small group focusing on topics such as study skills, communication and friendship skills, or stress reduction. Students may also request to work on a one-to-one basis for a few sessions. At the beginning of the year, students review the process for requesting an appointment or to be in a counseling group to work with students sharing similar concerns in a safe, guided and confidential setting.

In addition to student’s self- referrals, parents and staff may consult with me or request me to provide a child with assistance in a particular area. Also, I have numerous books on various areas of possible concerns, such as, attentional issues, behavior management, death, divorce, social skills, study skills, etc. I am very willing to loan these books to any interested parents or staff. I encourage you to contact me if you have an area of concern. To reach me, call the school office at 301-924-3126 and ask to speak with the counselor, MaryEllen Bombara. We will set up a mutually convenient appointment. I look forward to continuing to work with your children and the Olney Elementary School community.