At Columbine Elementary, school counselor Angelique Owens has established a series of lunch groups aimed at supporting both social and academic development of students. These small sessions, which offer a relaxed and supportive environment, have become part of the school’s commitment to student success. Each group consists of five to eight students, depending on grade level, who meet once a week for six to eight weeks. Students typically join through a combination of self-referrals and teacher recommendations.

The lunch groups provide an opportunity to get to know students better in a more informal setting. During these sessions, students eat lunch together and engage in activities such as games, role-playing scenarios, or acting out feelings. This helps students develop critical skills like self-regulation, cooperation, and confidence.

Owens first introduced the concept during her school counseling training, where she recognized the value of working with students in small settings. “I started running small groups during my internships and realized that I could connect with more students in a group rather than individually,” she explained. “These sessions also give students a chance to see that others may be going through similar situations, and they can practice skills in a smaller, more focused setting.”

The content of the session varies based on the needs of the students. For younger students, the focus is on self-regulation, following directions, and making friends. Older students focus on preparation for grade level transitions, such as moving on to middle school. The skills learned often translate directly into classroom success. “We practice basic skills like taking turns, active listening, and critical thinking, which help students feel more confident participating in class,” explained Owens. “These efforts align with our district’s vision for student well-being and academic achievement, ensuring all students receive the support they need to succeed.”

Owens makes a concerted effort to guarantee that every student has the opportunity to participate in the lunch groups. At the start of the school year, she engages with students in the cafeteria, asking if they are interested in joining a group and what skills or topics they would like to explore. Collaboration with teachers and parents is key to extending the benefits of lunch groups beyond lunchtime. “When teachers refer students, I follow up to see if the student needs additional support,” said Owens. “I also keep teachers informed about which students are participating, so they can help reinforce the skills learned in the classroom.”

Through these sessions, students at Columbine Elementary are learning to communicate, cooperate, and build the confidence they need to succeed both socially and academically. Students have expressed positive feedback about their experiences in the lunch groups. One fourth-grade student shared, “As a new student to Columbine, I liked my lunch group because it helped me make new friends.” Another student added, “What I enjoy most about this opportunity is spending time with Ms. Owens. “It makes me feel comfortable sharing my feelings and helps me build trust.”