SMCA has had a great beginning starting with our first meeting on 9/6, where Kristy Troutman talked about Domestic Violence, including first hand experience within her own family. There were 25 counselors in attendance, with three first-timers. (CEU credits were given out).
The second SMCA One Day Counselor’s Conference on Saturday, 9/29/07, was a resounding success with approximately 200 school and mental health counselors, as well as some school psychologists in attendance. Evaluations were VERY positive about the conference set-up as well as the sessions. Our keynote speaker, Dr. Clifton Mitchell was entertaining as well as informative and gave us insights into counseling techniques. SMCA will plan another conference next year with a larger steering committee, as we will likely have an even bigger number in attendance.
Nancy Truett spoke about Eating Disorders at our Oct. 4th meeting. She had very good handouts and treatment option information (CEU’s were given out).
On Thursday evening, October 11th from 6 to 8 p.m., SMCA’s College and Career Fair took place on the campus of Pellissippi State Technical Community College. Registration fee was lowest for TCA members and students. A reduced membership fee FOR THAT DAY ONLY offer brought in 10 new members for TCA!!! 88 colleges and universities were represented at the Fair and 450 seniors and juniors attended. SMCA is awarding seven $500 scholarships to seniors in attendance.
The governing council of SMCA did agree to underwrite the registration fees for all of SMCA’s officers for the one day conference. They also agreed to underwrite 50% of the Pres. And Pres. Elect’s TCA fees and ACA or ASCA conference fees. This was agreed upon as an incentive for developing leadership for SMCA.
At the 11/1/07 meeting, an informal optional home shower was held for Darrell Malone, since he lost his entire home and belongings at the end of May 2007. Dr. Bob Kronick gave an overview of full-service schools (so all could earn their CEU credit!)
For three of our last five meetings starting in Jan., our meals will be provided FREE for the first 30 to RSVP our secretary on-line (Jan, April and May)!!!!
This update addresses and accomplishes all three of our SMCA goals for 2007-2008, except we haven’t completed our meetings yet and Jen Beckler and I have not attended the national conference (ASCA) yet! We exceeded expectations for the One Day Conference and have ten NEW TCA members!
We are giving SEVEN instead of FOUR Scholarships from the College and Career Fair. We kept registration fees low for the one day conference.
Respectfully submitted 11/11/07,
Sue K. Clapp
SMCA President 2007-2008
Professional School Counselor
Halls Middle School
4317 Emory Rd.
Knoxville, TN 37938
Ofc. 865-925-7472
clapps@k12tn.net