As counselors, we are responsible for the counseling needs of the students at Mona Shores Middle School.  Mrs. Opiela is the counselor for students with last names starting with the letters A-K and Mrs. Butterfield is the counselor for students with last names starting with the letters L-Z . We have divided students this way rather than by grade level so that we can work with our students throughout their entire middle school career for the purpose of developing long term relationships and consistency.

As counselors, we wear many hats. We work with students one-on-one on issues dealing with both academic and personal concerns. We also have small groups that meet on topics such as anger management, grief and loss, friendship, bullying and divorce. In addition, we work with students on scheduling and career exploration. We also spend time in the classroom getting to know students and exploring topics such as career exploration, Educational Development Plans and scheduling.

We also collaborate with our administrators, our parents, and our teaching staff. We work as a team for the purpose of helping our students be successful in all areas of their lives.

The counselors at MSMS meet with students in small groups throughout the year.  Small group sessions are an effective way for students to process feelings and relate to other students.  Anything that is said in the group sessions is confidential unless a student is in danger.  The groups that may take place this year include:

• Divorce

• Grief and Loss

• "Calling all Colors"

• Friendship

• Girls in Real Life Situations

Has your child:

• Demonstrated unusually advanced aptitude in verbal or mathematical reasoning?

• Consistently performed in the top five percent nationally relative to their age group?

• Performed exceptionally well in academically demanding coursework in school?

If so, please read the information below for a great opportunity for your child.             

The Northwestern University Midwest Academic Talent Search (NUMATS, formerly MATS) is conducted by the Center for Talent Development at Northwestern University.  NUMATS offers educational opportunities targeted to students who have demonstrated unusually advanced aptitude in verbal or mathematical reasoning and consistently perform in the top 10% of their class nationwide.  Mona Shores Middle School is merely informing you of this program.  Participation is by parent nomination and is strictly voluntary.           

Students who are nominated by their parents will take part in a formal selection and qualifying process.  This process involves taking either the ACT or SAT, which are normally taken by juniors and seniors in high school.  In some cases, sixth grade students may take an EXPLORE test in place of the ACT or SAT.  To participate in the NUMATS program, your student must take the test on the date specified by NUMATS.  Students who participate in NUMATS will also receive information regarding special enrichment programs offered during the summer at various colleges.          

If you are interested in having your child participate in the NUMATS program, you may register him/her online.