Hi, I'm Kathleen โ your school counselor, advocate, and biggest cheerleader. Whether your child needs support with friendships, emotions, or reaching their goals, I'm here for them โ and for you.
I'm Kathleen Burchett, and I am so thrilled to be part of the Central Elementary family for the 2026โ2027 school year. I bring 15 years of experience with Johnson County Schools and 4 years as a Social Emotional Learning Specialist โ along with an unwavering belief that every single child deserves to feel seen, safe, and supported.
I approach my work with both warmth and intention. I'm data-driven because students deserve outcomes, not just good intentions โ and I'm flexible because every child's journey is uniquely their own.
To be an advocate for all students โ radiant with positivity, warm and welcoming, and always ready to see the good in everyone who walks through my door.
I believe that when students feel emotionally safe, everything else โ academics, friendships, ambition โ has room to flourish.
My role goes beyond one-on-one conversations. I work alongside teachers, families, and staff to build a school community where every student can thrive.
One-to-one sessions where students have a confidential, judgment-free space to work through challenges โ from friendship troubles to managing big feelings.
Focused small-group sessions around particular social-emotional themes, giving students connection, shared language, and practical skills they can use every day.
I visit classrooms to teach age-appropriate lessons on topics like test anxiety, career exploration, stress, friendships, and the skills that make school โ and life โ go better.
Collaborating with teachers and specialists on behavioral intervention โ identifying patterns, building plans, and ensuring every student has the support structure they need.
Even at the elementary level, we plant the seeds! Career interest surveys, career fairs, goal-setting activities, and classroom lessons that open students' eyes to possibility.
Partnering with parents and guardians is essential. I'm available to consult, share resources, and connect families to the right support โ inside and outside of school.
Everything I do as your school counselor connects back to three research-grounded areas identified by the American School Counselor Association.
Helping every student imagine a future full of possibility โ starting now.
Supporting students in reaching their full academic potential through data and collaboration.
Building the emotional and social toolkit that carries students through life.
These aren't just aspirations โ they're the commitments I make to every student, teacher, and family at Central Elementary.
What it feels like when someone truly shows up for your child.
"My daughter was struggling with anxiety around tests, and after just two sessions with Ms. Burchett she came home with actual strategies โ and a smile. She finally felt like someone at school really got her."
"Ms. Burchett's classroom lessons are some of the most engaged I've ever seen my students. They actually talk about feelings and goal-setting in a way that sticks. She's a genuine gift to this school."
"From day one she made us feel like partners, not just bystanders. She proactively reached out, shared what she was noticing, and gave us real tools to support our son at home too. That kind of counselor is rare."
Whether you have a concern about your child, a question about my services, or just want to introduce yourself โ my door (and inbox) is always open.
Your message is private and handled with care. ๐