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MS & ES Counseling

Middle School Counselors

Photo of MS Counselor Jennifer Bish

Ms. Jennifer Bish 
5th & 6th Grades Counselor

Photo of MS Counselor Jennifer Hayes

Ms. Jennifer Hayes
7th & 8th Grades Counselor

Middle school counselors address individual student's social and emotional needs. Additionally, counselors present the following topics to the entire MS student body over the course of their four years with us:

  • Making new friends
  • Differences in the brain
  • Time management skills
  • Digital Citizenship lessons
  • Strategies to navigate verbal, social and cyberbullying 
  • Effective communication with peers
  • Navigating cliques 
  • Handling anxiety and suggested relaxation strategies
  • What it means to be a leader

Middle school counselors address individual student's social and emotional needs. Additionally, counselors present the following topics to the entire MS student body over the course of their four years with us:

  • Making new friends
  • Differences in the brain
  • Time management skills
  • Digital Citizenship lessons
  • Strategies to navigate verbal, social and cyberbullying 
  • Effective communication with peers
  • Navigating cliques 
  • Handling anxiety and suggested relaxation strategies
  • What it means to be a leader

Middle School to High School Transition

A student’s first year of high school is considered to be one of the most crucial of their school career. It is a pivotal year and a good predictor of a student’s high school success. For this reason, we carefully guide our students' transition from 8th to 9th grade and prepare them for a successful transition

Counseling Resources

MS Counseling Parent/Student Resources

Elementary School Counselor

Ms. Heather Crane
ES Counselor


At Lake Norman Charter, our elementary school counselor is an essential member of the educational team. Through leadership, advocacy, and collaboration, the counselor helps ensure every student has the support they need to succeed. We believe that student achievement is best nurtured through a strong partnership among the school counselor, parents, teachers, administration, and the broader school community.

Our team values the diverse backgrounds, strengths, and unique needs of each student. Together, we work to create a positive, inclusive environment where all children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Direct Services to Students

Direct services are face-to-face interactions provided by the school counselor. These services include:

  • Integration of leadership development and counseling topics within the classroom and school environment
  • Individual student planning to support academic and personal growth
  • Emotional and social support tailored to student needs
  • Daily responsive services to address immediate concerns or challenges

Indirect Services on Behalf of Students

Indirect services are provided through the counselor’s work with families, staff, and community partners. These include:

  • Referrals for additional resources or specialized support

  • Consultation and collaboration with parents, teachers, administrators, and community agencies to promote student well-being

Fourth Grade to Middle School Transition

The transition from elementary to middle school can be a significant adjustment for students and their families. In fourth grade, our team works proactively with students and parents to help ensure a smooth and confident move to the next level.

Middle school brings several important changes. The campus is larger, with a greater number of students. Beginning in fifth grade, students will transition between classes independently and use lockers for the first time. Academic expectations also increase, with more complex assignments and greater emphasis on organizational and independent work habits. In addition, students will encounter new social dynamics within the school environment and through expanded extracurricular opportunities.

At the same time, middle school offers exciting possibilities that are not available at the elementary level, including a wider range of student activities and elective courses. Through intentional preparation and support during fourth grade, we strive to equip every student for a successful and positive transition into the middle school experience.