Welcome to Thrall Middle School Counseling Services!

I am thrilled to be joining Thrall ISD and becoming a member of the Thrall Middle School family! With nine years of experience as a school counselor, I am eager to meet my new students and work with them to enhance their academic achievements along with their social and emotional development.

I believe it's crucial for middle school students to start using their voices to seek help when needed, whether in person or through an online counseling request. However, maintaining open communication with parents and staff will be essential for us to collectively address our students' needs.

Please feel free to reach out to me any time. 

Confidentiality Notice: 
When a student comes to see the School Counselor, what is said in my office is confidential and will be kept between myself and the student. This means that what is said in my office, stays in my office, unless... you want to hurt yourself, you want to hurt somebody else, or someone is hurting you. 

Reasons to See the School Counselor:
Scheduling Help/Information
Help Managing Time 
Support Getting Organized 
School Needs 
Help Solving Problems 
Help Navigating Middle School & Future Decisions
Support with Study Skills 
Help with Social Issues
Help with Friends or Conflicts with Peers
Help with Family Issues 
Help Dealing with Anger Issues
Help Dealing with Anxiety Issues
Self-Esteem Needs 
To Talk it Out (about things bothering/overwhelming/stressing you out)
Explore Career Paths, College Choices, & Personal Graduation Plans
Help Managing Stress 
Help Getting Resources 
Anything Else You May Need Help With!

This year we will be participating in a program called CharacterStrong, which prepares students for success both during middle school and as they move into their future. We will focus on 3 main outcomes that also align with our TMS Tiger Way P.A.C.T. These outcomes are: improving skills that support student well-being (Pride and Attitude), increasing a sense of belonging for all students (Community), and deepening student engagement in their academics, in their school, and in their community (Tenacity).

One of the key parts of nearly every middle school CharacterStrong lesson is the “CharacterDare Challenge.” These are invitations near the end of most lessons that invite students to put the content that they are learning into action in the real world. If you ever want to play an active role in the CharacterStrong curricula, simply ask your student about the most recent CharacterDare. Maybe they’ll invite you to try one yourself! 

To learn more about CharacterStrong, you can check out characterstrong.com or CS family page to discover other resources for students and families. You can also reach out to Mrs. Virdell, TMS counselor, should you have any other questions. 

Looking forward to a great year!

Kindly, 

TyAnna Virdell

CharacterStrong Lesson Newsletters