Together, We Hold the Power to Foster Change for Our Children!
The School Counseling Program
The school counseling program at Ripley Elementary School supports students' academic, social, and emotional needs. Led by Mrs. Shelbi and Mrs. Brittany, it offers individual and group counseling, classroom lessons, and crisis support. We work with admin, teachers and parents to foster a positive school environment and help students develop essential life skills, ensuring every student feels safe and empowered to reach their full potential.
Our Mission
The mission of our school counseling program is to promote the academic, personal, social, and emotional well-being of every student by providing a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. Through comprehensive counseling services, collaboration with families and staff, and proactive initiatives, we aim to empower students to develop their full potential, build positive relationships, and become responsible, confident members of our school community.
School Counselors
Shelbi Cress, School Counselor
Mrs. Shelbi Cress serves as a school counselor at Ripley Elementary School. A proud native of Lauderdale County, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education (K–6) from The University of Tennessee at Martin and completed her graduate studies in School Counseling at Arkansas State University. Mrs. Cress has been in education for 10 years, with the past 8 years dedicated to RES.
Brittany Fulton, School Counselor
Mrs. Brittany Fulton has served as a school counselor at Ripley Elementary School for the past 4 years. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, her Master’s in Education Specialist from Arkansas State University, and an endorsement in School Counseling from The University of Tennessee at Martin.
Services Provided
Individual Counseling
Individual counseling provides a safe, supportive space for students to discuss feelings and challenges. It helps them learn coping strategies and skills for managing issues like friendships and stress, fostering confidence in their school experience.
Small Group Counseling
Small group counseling involves a small group of students meeting with a counselor to discuss topics like friendship, feelings, and stress management. These sessions foster social skills, empathy, and learning from peers in a safe environment, enhancing positive relationships and emotional well-being.
Classroom Lessons
Classroom lessons are brief, engaging presentations by school counselors focused on teaching students essential social and emotional skills like kindness, cooperation, conflict resolution, and emotion management. These lessons foster a positive school environment, aiding students' academic and personal success.
Crisis Intervention
Crisis intervention offers immediate counseling for students facing urgent emotional or safety issues, such as trauma or loss. The aim is to ensure safety, provide comfort, and connect families with recovery resources during difficult times.
Seeking a Counselor
If a student feels the need to speak with a counselor, they can fill out a counselor request form provided by their teacher, which helps the counselor understand their needs. If ongoing counseling is determined to be beneficial, a parent consent form will be sent home for parents or guardians to review and sign, giving permission for the student to receive counseling services. This process ensures that students receive the support they need in a way that involves and respects family involvement.
Confidentiality Policy
Our school counseling confidentiality policy ensures a safe environment for students by keeping shared information private, except in cases of harm risk or legal obligations. Counselors will explain confidentiality limits and share information with parents only when appropriate, prioritizing student safety and well-being. We promote open communication to maintain trust and support during counseling.
Contact Us
Phone: 731-221-3066
Mrs. Shelbi: scress@k12.lced.net
Mrs. Brittany: bfulton@k12.lced.net
Office Hours: 2:00-2:30