Innovative professional with expertise in promoting academic, career and social development programs. Possesses excellent communication, problem-solving and organizational skills. Trusted advisor goes extra mile to help individuals succeed.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of School Counseling
Kittery School District
08.2021 - Current
Guide students through the process of course selection and scheduling as they plan for their future beyond high school.
Facilitate and plan professional development for staff in the area of social emotional learning, diversity, equity and inclusion.
Member of the District Proficiency Based Teaching and Learning Team (PBTLT) and the School Based Leadership Team (BLT).
Lead the development of a district wide comprehensive framework for social emotional learning that is delivered by the school counseling team K-12.
Manage and Direct the school district counseling team which is comprised of two elementary school counselors, two middle school counselors, a high school counselor and district wide social worker.
Collaborate with outside systems of support such as NAMI Maine, Choose to be Healthy, Great School Partnerships, Out Maine and other organizations within the state of Maine that focus on wellness, equity, and prevention.
Connect Students and Families to outside resources to support mental health, financial and educational needs outside of the public school setting.
Train students and staff on suicide prevention.
Deliver Social Emotional Learning Curriculum to students in grades 9-12.
Counsel students one on one and in group settings with a focus on building resiliency, mattering, emotion regulation, and navigating relationships.
Guide students through the college application process using tools such as Naviance, Common App, and College Board.
Organize and train staff to deliver state wide testing such as NWEA and MYHIS.
Coordinator for College Board Testing; which involves preparing, training and delivering PSAT, SAT and AP Testing School Wide.
Develop data-driven action plans to target areas in need of improvement within the school counseling program.
Partner with school administrators, teachers and parents or guardians to provide students with appropriate and adequate counseling support in school.
School Counselor
Hampton School District
08.2010 - 07.2021
Enhanced student emotional well-being by providing individual and group counseling sessions for students in grades 6-8.
Collaborated with teachers and administrators to address the social, emotional, and academic needs of all students.
Developed a safe and supportive school environment by promoting positive behavior and addressing issues such as bullying and harassment.
Provided crisis intervention in response to emergencies, employing existing trust, and rapport to deescalate situations.
Maintained positive relationships with students, faculty, alumni, and administration.
Implemented data-driven strategies to identify areas of need within the school population, leading to targeted interventions and support services while leading the Student Support Team (SAT).
Partnered with parents and guardians to promote student success in school environment.
Coordinated efforts with community organizations to provide additional resources for students facing various challenges.
Developed and conducted workshops and seminars to educate students, faculty and parents on relevant topics such as; social media safety, suicide prevention and trama informed care.
Lead the Positive Behavior Intervention Support Universal Team.
Coordinated Student 504 Plans in grades 6-8.
Lifeguard and Certified Swim Instructor
Portsmouth Recreation Department
06.2001 - 08.2010
Learned and maintained proficiency in first responder skills such as First Aid and CPR.
Ensured swimmer safety by vigilantly monitoring pool area and enforcing rules.
Provided friendly customer service to guests and addressed concerns.
Assisted swimmers in distress using appropriate rescue techniques based on individual needs and circumstances.
Conducted routine water tests to maintain proper chemical balance, ensuring optimal swimming conditions for patrons.
Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in lifeguarding and water safety education.
Trained new lifeguards on safety procedures and protocol.
Organized special events such as pool parties and competitions, ensuring guest enjoyment while maintaining safety standards.
Taught daily swim instruction to students varying in ages and skill levels.
Promoted a fun learning environment through engaging activities and games designed to reinforce essential swimming skills.
Developed and implemented lesson plans based on individual student needs.
Provided one-on-one instruction for students requiring additional assistance in mastering specific skills or techniques.
Elementary School Counselor
Rochester School District
08.2006 - 07.2010
Implemented comprehensive guidance curriculum that addressed the academic, career, and social-emotional development of all students.
Reduced absenteeism rates through proactive communication with families and targeted counseling for at-risk students.
Participated in IEP meetings to advocate for the needs of special education students, ensuring access to appropriate resources and support services.
Facilitated conflict resolution among peers, resulting in improved classroom dynamics and reduced behavioral issues.
Conducted small group sessions on topics such as stress management, self-esteem building, and goal setting to empower individual growth.
Collaborated with behavioral aides, teachers, psychiatrists and school nurses to assess student needs and strengths.
Assisted in developing school-wide policies around bullying prevention efforts that led to a decrease in reported incidents.
Lead the Positive Behavior Intervention Support (PBIS) Universal and Target Teams.
Supported transitioning incoming kindergarten students through the creation of an orientation program designed to ease anxiety about starting elementary school.
Established a successful peer mentoring program to foster positive connections among students across grade levels.
Led and planned an annual health fair for students, staff and families to connect with outside resources that promote health and wellness.