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Counselor

Welcome to Expedition Elementary!

My name is Veronica Kaipainen (“Mrs. K.”) and I am so proud to be the counselor here!  I consider it a privilege and honor to serve our students, their families, and our staff.

I provide support in both social emotional and academic skills to help develop well-rounded learners and individuals.  I may visit with students individually, in small groups, or even in the classroom setting, which means it is likely I will be interacting with all of our students in some capacity throughout the year.  I will reach out if needed, but please don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have. I'm here to assist in any way I can.

Family support is crucial, too.  I work closely with families in need of resources.  If you are in need of some resources (mental health/counseling information, clothing, supplies, bills, etc.) please contact me.  Resources are scarce and limited, but I'm committed to doing what I can to help you and your family.

For questions and concerns, please email me at vkaipainen@bethelsd.org or call 253.800.2479.

  • Assists with inquiring about and applying for resources from the state.

*United Way of Pierce County

  • "Go-to" first check resource for all of Pierce County.  This has information to every type of resource from shelters, food, utilities, home repair, etc., etc.  Call 2-1-1 and you will get a live person to assist you.  For independent research, you can use the website.  This is a great resource for volunteering as well.

Kids Mental Health Pierce County

  • Kids’ Mental Health Pierce County is a group of agencies and professionals dedicated to improving child and adolescent mental health treatment and prevention in Pierce County.

KidsHealth

  • Webpage that kids can access about various different types of emotions, ways to cope, scenarios, etc.  There is an audio version for non-readers, as well as can be accessed in Spanish.

Second Step

  • This is the Curriculum that our district has adopted to support Social Emotional Learning in our students.  Social Emotional Learning provides our students with tools and strategies for emotion and conflict management, growth mindset and interpersonal skills.  More about this can be found in the Office of Superintendant of Public Instruction (OSPI) SEL website.

Bethel School District - Family Resources

  • A comprehensive list of resources in our area.

Autism Speaks

  • Resource for students and families who have a family member diagnosed with Autism.

The Trevor Project

  • Resources and support lines for our LGBTQ youth