I currently work in a split position shared between two elementary buildings. Both buildings have 1.5 school counselors and I am the .5 in both buildings. I am in charge of running small groups in both buildings. One building has mentioned they are willing to be flexible with my role, but not the other. I did not realize how hard this position would be. I miss all the pieces of a comprehensive counseling program. I used to love running small groups, but it was always within the balance of classroom lessons, individual counseling, and collaboration and education of staff. In my district there are 4 or 5 school counselors in a position like mine. Each of them is similar to mine with the split position running small groups. I am currently applying for the 2 open positions in my district that would be only in one building, but I may still be in this position next year. My question for this group is, how do I advocate for a more balanced role? In my head with k-5 buildings, it would make sense to split by grade level. Full time counselor getting 4 grades and part time taking 2. I believe if I had two grade levels at both schools I could get to know all of those students and teachers much better and be better able to support individual and small group counseling needs. I just think it would be a better mix. I feel like whether I stay in this position or move on with a full time/one building position, it would be worth advocating for this change to retain our part time counselors and offer better student support. Any other ideas for advocating for this change?

What do you do to manage the behaviors in some of your groups? I have 5 or less students in my groups, but sometimes putting all those kiddos together who need social skills can be difficult! Last week I stopped two groups short because of their behaviors. Today I will meet with the 3 students in one of those groups separately. I contacted parents and talked with teachers (who really enjoy the few minutes they are with me because it gives them a reprieve). I will keep trying, and collecting data. Looks like they probably need more intensive intervention... Open to suggestions!