Skip To Main Content
Walworth Barbour American International School In Israel School Logo
Walworth Barbour American International School in Israel Logo
Walworth Barbour American International School in Israel Logo

Middle School Counseling

MS Counselor Jennifer Biton

My name is Jennifer Biton, and I serve as the Middle School Counselor. With over 20 years of experience in counseling children, adolescents, and adults across diverse settings, I am delighted to be part of this international school community since January 2024.

Prior to relocating to Israel, I was the Director of Mental Health Services at a K-12 private school in South Florida. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling and Guidance from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and have extensive experience in various areas of mental health, including inpatient and outpatient care, as well as intensive outpatient programs. Additionally, I have served as a high school counselor and AP Coordinator and have supervised school counselors across 34 public schools in South Florida, supporting students from elementary through high school.

I am deeply committed to supporting both students and parents throughout the middle school years—a pivotal stage of development where students explore their identity, gain independence and cultivate empathy, confidence, and self-esteem. Recognizing the social and emotional complexities of this period, I strive to equip students with effective coping strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and other challenges. My passion lies in fostering resilience and resourcefulness, empowering students to transition into high school as strong, confident individuals.

MS Program

Middle School Counseling Program

The Middle School (MS) counseling program focuses on supporting students through the critical developmental years of early adolescence. It builds on the foundation of social-emotional learning (SEL) while expanding to include identity development, resilience, self-advocacy, and academic success. 

The Middle School Counseling Program Consists of the Following Components;

Daily Advisory: Designed to foster a strong sense of community, advisory provides students with a consistent, supportive environment where they can build meaningful relationships with peers and a trusted faculty advisor.

  1. Monthly Grade Level Comprehensive Counseling Lessons in in the Classroom

Monthly Grade Level Digital citizenship Lessons in the Classroom

Six week Health class

Trauma Informed Practices that are taught in each classroom each day

Wellness and Resilience: Students learn coping strategies for stress, anxiety, and emotional regulation as they navigate increasing academic and social pressures.Book Study to support parent understanding of this important developmental time for their children.

Nervous Regulation 

  • Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): The MS program integrates the curriculum as a Tier 1 universal approach, covering four core units: (1) Mindsets & Goals, (2) Recognizing & Managing Emotions, (3) Social Awareness & Empathy, and (4) Restorative Practices & Responsible Decision-Making.
  • Wellness and Resilience: Students learn coping strategies for stress, anxiety, and emotional regulation as they navigate increasing academic and social pressures.
  • Responsive Services: The counselor provides individual and small-group support for issues such as peer relationships, self-esteem, conflict resolution, and transitions. Parents are valued partners, and external referrals are provided when necessary.

2. Academic Development

The program equips students with essential academic and executive functioning skills to foster independence and responsibility.

  • Study Skills & Organization: Students receive guidance on time management, goal-setting, and self-advocacy to enhance academic success.
  • Collaboration with the Student Support Team (SST): The counselor works closely with teachers, administrators, and families to ensure students receive necessary interventions and accommodations.
  • Transition Support: Helping students adjust to middle school expectations and prepare for the transition to high school.

3. Identity Development & Global Citizenship

Middle school is a time of self-discovery and identity formation. The program encourages students to explore their personal and cultural identity in a supportive and inclusive environment.

  • Self-Awareness & Growth: Students develop confidence and a strong sense of self while learning to navigate social dynamics.
  • Diversity & Inclusion: Lessons and discussions focus on empathy, respect for differences, and fostering a positive school culture.
  • Transition Programs: Special programming helps students adapt to new environments, such as moving to a new country, adjusting to middle school, or preparing for high school.

4. Future Planning & Self-Advocacy

While career and college planning are emphasized in high school, middle school counseling introduces students to future planning through self-awareness and goal-setting.

  • Exploring Strengths & Interests: Students engage in activities that help them recognize their skills, values, and aspirations.
  • Developing Self-Advocacy Skills: Encouraging students to take responsibility for their learning and well-being by communicating their needs effectively.
  • Building Resilience & Growth Mindset: Helping students develop perseverance, adaptability, and confidence to face challenges.

The MS counseling program provides a proactive, developmentally appropriate framework to ensure students build the skills, resilience, and confidence needed to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally during their middle school years and beyond.