GUIDANCE OFFICE
Deb Laney
Counselor - 3rd & 4th grades
dlaney@tps.k12.mi.us
Bullying and Harassment
Differences between Conflict, Teasing, Rough Play, and Bullying
(Shared from The Center for Safe Schools)
Bullying is intentional humiliation and/or harm inflicted on a child who is seen as less powerful. Bullying is a form of peer abuse and should never be ignored.
Harassment is unwanted, unwelcome and uninvited behavior that demeans, threatens or offends the victim and results in a hostile environment for the victim.
Conflict occurs between children with equal power. Conflict is a normal part of life and not meant to intentionally harm others. Bullying is not conflict and should not be resolved using conflict resolution or peer mediation strategies.
Teasing is typically a behavior that is between friends or family members to positively change someone’s behavior. For example: “C’mon slowpoke,” “Okay, Michael Jordan. Let’s see you block this shot.”
Rough Play is usually between friends, and there is no intent to harm. The children interact in a positive, friendly manner.
Understanding the difference between these forms of behavior is important so that adults can respond and follow up appropriately. When inappropriate behaviors are witnessed, adults and/or peers should intervene.
For More Information
Tips for helping students and families to cope with cyberbullying (prevention and intervention) can be found at www.cyberbullying.ca
CAREER EXPLORATION
What do you want to do after graduation? It's a question adults ask all the time, but what if you don't know? Don't worry - you have plenty of time to explore your interests and learn more about the wide variety of career options available to you.
Take advantage of the opportunities presented and go on a tour, hear from a presenter or volunteer at a business or organization to learn more about different careers. There are also many opportunities to job-shadow in the community. Interested students should contact Mrs. Laney or make an appointment.
Online Resources
Career Cruising is a self-exploration website tool that helps students discover their interests and career options. See Mrs. Laney for username and password access.
Michigan's Hot 50 through 2026 – This publication highlights Michigan’s high-demand, high-wage careers
Michigan's Career Outlook through 2026 – Visit for information about in-demand occupations, including Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) careers.
Regional Hot Jobs for 2024 – Look for information on in-demand jobs for each of Michigan’s 10 Prosperity Regions, highlighting occupations that will are projected to have long-term job growth, job openings, and strong wages.
MI Construction Careers - Think you could be interested in a career as an ironworker, plumber, pipe fitter, electrician, millwright or other trades worker? This site has great information about trade careers in Michigan.
EVENTS AND TRIPS
Stay tuned for announcements
PARENT RESOURCES
More information coming soon!
Articles
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Check back soon for ways you can help out in our community!
SUPPORT FOR LIFE'S CHALLENGES
Life can be very complicated, confusing, and stressful. It can be difficult to know where to turn for help. This page is intended to be a starting point and we've compiled some resources that you may find helpful. Please know we want to help in any way we can.
The STEAM Center counselor, mentors and teachers are to assist students who are experiencing academic, emotional, or social difficulties and/or issues with drug/alcohol use. Students can be referred by a staff member, parent, friend, or themselves.
If you, or someone you know needs help, caring professionals are available.
Need Help Right Away?
Call 9-1-1
If you are in immediate danger, please call 9-1-1 and emergency help will be dispatched to you.
Text 741-741
Confidentially text with someone at the Crisis Text Line whenever you need help. Licensed professionals are available 24/7.
Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
The staff at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can provide help during all sorts of crisis situations.