At Picture Rocks Elementary School, we are fortunate enough to have two counselors to work with students! This support is designed to help students with academic, behavioral and social/emotional skills in order to help our students become well-rounded and successful at school. 

Mrs. Kolden is our school counselor. This is her 18th year as a school counselor and her 8th year here at Picture Rocks. Prior to coming to Picture Rocks, she dedicated five years to students at Mountain View High School, working in the Marana district for the last 13 years. She has four children, with her youngest daughter attending high school in the district. 

Mr. Dix is our Title 1 Counselor and Behavioral Interventionist. This is his 2nd year in this position and his 4th year in the Marana district, with 21 years of teaching experience. He has two students who attend Marana High School, and his favorite hobby is unicycle-riding! 

What does the school counselor do at Picture Rocks?

In Marana, school counselors follow the ASCA (American School Counselor Association) National Model. Gone are the days of sitting in an office waiting for “student problems”. We are very proactive! Below describes briefly how we support students and families at Picture Rocks. 

Class Guidance lessons for every class- Each class at Picture Rocks receives counseling lessons in their classroom every other week. These lessons include topics such as; problem-solving skills, friendship skills, kindness, bullying and internet safety, study skills, social interactions, character building, and many others 

Small Group Counseling - These groups are for students that can use some additional small group assistance. Groups form based on the type of needs. Examples include: Changing Families, anger/feelings management, friendship building, and even self-esteem. These groups usually meet one day a week for 30 minutes. Sign up forms are available by request in the counseling office or by contacting Mrs. Kolden or Mr. Dix by phone or email. 

Individual Counseling - School Counseling is not meant to be therapy. However, in times of crisis or concerns, I often meet with students individually to provide additional support or to help students solve problems. 

If you would like additional information about our counseling program, please feel free to call or email either counselor. 

Nancie Kolden, MA. Ed., BSS - 
School Counselor
(520) 616-3700 ext. 6231