Hello, my name is Leandra Vallez and this is my fifth year at Devon Forest Elementary School! I received my Bachelor's degree from the University of Alabama (Roll Tide!), and my Master's degree in School Counseling from Clemson University (Go Tigers!). I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA). I love working with students individually, in small groups, and in the classroom. I am excited to support and advocate for the students and families of DFE. Please do not hesitate to call or email us with any concerns or questions.
DFE Counseling Department
The school counselors at Devon Forest are available to ALL students.
What does a school counselor do?
Our job most likely looks a lot different than the "guidance counselor" you may think of from years ago.
The school counselors at Devon Forest Elementary School offer a variety of services in a comprehensive school counseling program for students and families. These services are designed to help, support, and advocate for students to be successful socially, emotionally, and academically. These services also promote personal growth, which in turn, raise academic standards. As part of those services we offer....
Our Counselors
Leandra Vallez
Phone: 843-820-3880
Email: vallezl@bcsdschools.net
Brooke Clark
Phone: 843-820-3880
Email: clarkb@bcsdschools.net
This is my first year at Devon Forest Elementary School! I received my Bachelor's degree from Bowling Green State University, and my Master's degree in School Counseling from the University of West Alabama. Before joining the DFE family, I taught 7th grade math in Dorchester District Two for five years. I’m looking forward to helping children become more successful students and working with them to help them effectively deal with a variety of problems. Please feel free to call or email us with any questions or concerns! I am here to support and advocate for your children in any way I can.
Counseling Services
Individual Counseling:
Individual brief counseling is offered to all students at any time based on the student's needs.
Small Group Counseling:
As part of our school’s comprehensive school counseling program, we offer small groups periodically over the year that focus on a specific topic with the support of peers. Many students are invited to participate in a small group experience throughout the year. Small groups provide educational opportunities. Groups are structured, confidential, and typically involve teaching and practicing new skills. Groups are formed based on need and requests.
Monthly Classroom Lessons:
Our classroom guidance lessons are scheduled with K4 through 5th homeroom classes once a month. Classroom lessons cover a variety of topics related to Social/Emotional, Academic, and Career Development. This includes character education, growth mindsets, personal safety, academic success skills, and career exploration/awareness. The themes and activities during these lessons help students learn to work with others, learn how to problem solve and make good choices, demonstrate soft skills, and learn about the world of work.
October: Meet the School Counselors
November: Feelings, Coping Skills, Mindfulness
December: Diversity-Embracing Differences
January: Kindness, Friendship, Conflict Resolution
February: Personal Safety
March: Growth Mindset and Perseverance
April: Academic Success
May: Career Awareness and Exploration
Other Lessons:Drug Awareness and PreventionSelf-Discipline - Goal SettingParent and/or Teacher Consultations and Community Resource Referrals:
School counselors are available to teachers, parents, guardians, and families with any questions, concerns, consultations, and conferences regarding student concerns.