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Counseling

Supporting the Whole Child—Socially, Emotionally, and Academically

The Central Elementary Counseling Program is here to support every student’s social, emotional, and academic growth. Through a variety of services—including classroom guidance lessons, short-term individual and group counseling, crisis response, and social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum—students are given tools to navigate school and life with confidence and care. The counselor also collaborates with staff and families to help create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing school environment where all students feel valued and supported.

Counseling Beliefs

  • All students have dignity and worth.

  • Every student has the right to access counseling services.

  • The counselor is an advocate for students.

  • Every student is unique and learns at their own pace.

  • Students can develop resilience and emotional awareness.

  • With the right support, all students can succeed.

  • School counselors collaborate with families and community partners to meet student needs.

  • Data is used to improve and guide counseling practices.

  • School counselors follow the ASCA Ethical Standards.

Meet the Counselor

Ms. Cardenas, School Counselor
Hi! I’m Ms. Cardenas, the counselor at Central Elementary. I earned my Liberal Studies degree from Long Beach State and completed my teaching credential and master’s in Counseling and Guidance with a PPS credential from Cal State San Bernardino. I completed my internship here in 2014–2015 and officially returned in 2016 after working as a Children’s Clinician II in Arizona. Since then, I’ve proudly served in leadership roles like PBIS Tier I & II Coordinator and SST Coordinator. I love coming to work each day and being a part of your child’s journey.

Services Offered

  • Short-Term Individual Counseling

  • Small Group Counseling (6–8 week sessions based on need)

  • Classroom SEL Lessons

  • Crisis Response

  • Check-In/Check-Out Support

  • Parent & Teacher Consultations (by request)

📌 Note: Parents will be contacted before ongoing services begin for a student.

Daily Acts of Kindness

💛 Mannerly Monday – Practice weekly PBIS social skills
💛 Thoughtful Tuesday – Show kindness through meaningful actions
💛 Wellness Wednesday – Focus on emotional awareness and wellness
💛 Thankful Thursday – Cultivate gratitude and reflection
💛 Friendly Friday – Build positive relationships with others

Contact Information

📧 Email: dcardenas@banning.k12.ca.us
📱 Google Voice (Parent Use Only): (951) 381-0938
🕒 Office Hours: Monday–Friday | 8:30 a.m.–3:40 p.m.
Note: With over 700 students, please allow 2–3 business days for a response.