Counseling
Mrs. Tierney Leeper
Hello Akin Family!
It has been a joy to serve the students, parents, and staff at Akin Elementary! This year starts my 20th year in education and my 8th year as Akin's School Counselor. I have been married to my all-around amazing husband Michael for 25 years in September. We have two girls, Avery and Emily, and our sweet goldendoodles, Jake, Jinger, and Maggie.
My desire is to see the students at Akin Elementary succeed in all areas of their lives. We know that to see a student shine, we must work hand in hand to ensure their success. The teamwork and partnership between home and school are essential, and I look forward to building these relationships.
At Akin, we know and value the impact of teaching social and emotional skills to students. I continually partner with teachers and parents to help meet the needs of students. Throughout the year, I will visit classes during the last half of their library rotation and at the teacher's request in the classroom teaching lessons that focus on recovery and calming strategies, mindfulness, empathy, kindness, compassion, respect, grit, and friendship/social skills. Additionally, I may meet with students individually or in small groups, depending on their needs. We love the Kids Count Players program through the Children's Advocacy Center of Collin County as a resource for K-2 students to aid in awareness of personal boundaries and to educate students on child abuse prevention. We use the "Protect Yourself Rules" from the Barbara Sinatra Children's Center for our older students to share awareness and prevention in these areas. I often implement various books, including many Julia Cook books, in my lessons. I also enjoy utilizing the "Mind-Up" curriculum to teach the students about mindfulness and the brain.
A few more of my jobs as your counselor include being the 504 Coordinator, Guardians of the Frogs (previously Watch Dogs) campus contact, Wylie Way representative, and MENTOR program liaison. Please know that I am here to answer questions or discuss your concerns regarding your child’s development or well-being at school. Feel free to contact me anytime, should the need arise.
CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor of Science in Nutrition
Master of Education
Texas School Counselor Certification