LYNETTE CONNELLY
Niceville,FL
Summary
Deeply committed to supporting the military and their families. A Gold Star Wife and a former AFSOC Squadron Commander's Wife at Hurlburt Field, Possess a profound understanding of the challenges faced by service members and their loved ones. This unique perspective combined with my professional background, positions me to effectively lead and enhance the services provided by Embry-Riddle Education Center.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
School Counselor
Okaloosa School District
01.2018 - Current
- Led and managed a team of faculty and staff, fostering an environment of growth, learning, and excellence
- Collaborated with military bases Educational Liaison to implement support programs ensuring the highest quality of education and support for military and civilian students
- Provided personalized counseling services with a focus on empowerment and resilience to students
- Led workshops and collaborated with Stakeholders to support student well-being and academic success
- Chair Threat Management Team
- 504 coordinator and Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) coordinator, ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment
- Dual-Enrollment specialist
- Increased awareness of post-secondary options by organizing college and career readiness workshops and events.
- Implemented data-driven strategies to identify areas of need within the school population, leading to targeted interventions and support services.
- Created an inclusive learning environment by advocating for accommodations for students with special needs or disabilities.
- Maintained a high level of professional development through continuous education, conference attendance, and participation in professional organizations related to school counseling.
- Provided crisis intervention in response to emergencies, employing existing trust, and rapport to deescalate situations.
- Used data to monitor students' progress and recommend solutions for improvement.
- Maintained positive relationships with students, faculty, alumni, and administration.
- Volunteer/ Fundraising Coordinator created activities that enhanced educational opportunities along with community engagement
Associate Professor
Northwest Florida State College
08.2003 - 01.2013
- Taught Human Growth and Development, Psychology, and College Success
- Assisted students with Dual Enrollment
- Counseled students on financial aid, scholarships, tuition assistance, and the G.I.Bill
- Designed and implemented curriculum for a diverse student population, focusing on academic and personal growth
- Provided comprehensive support to students, including personalized advising, course registration, degree planning, career counseling, financial assistance, and scholarships.
- Utilized various assessment tools to regularly evaluate student progress and adjust instruction accordingly for optimal results.
- Improved student retention rates by providing timely feedback, tailored support services, and close monitoring of progress throughout the semester.
- Mentored students and advised on career paths, degree requirements and post-graduate education options.
- Demonstrated strong interpersonal and communication skills, resulting in clear subject matter discussion with students.
Education
Master of Science - Counseling And Psychology
Troy University
Troy, AL05.2003
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
University of West Florida
Pensacola, FLSkills
- Academic Advising
- Maintaining confidentiality
- Solutions-focused, data-driven
- Deep understanding of military culture and community needs
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
- Student Records Management
- Student Records Maintenance
- Cultural Competency
- Individual and family support
- Career Advising
- Experienced in working with educational liaisons and military bases (eg, Eglin Air Force Base)
- Crisis intervention strategies
- Diverse groups presentations
- Policy and procedure improvements
- Job Search Instruction
Volunteer Experience
- Military Community Advocate and Support Program Leader
- Organized community events at Hurlburt Field for the 15th Special Operations Squadron (SOS) families
- Engaged in various community service projects aimed at supporting military families and enhancing local educational programs
Certification
- NCSC - National Certified School Counselor
- Professional Educator Certificate 807720
- Certificate of Completion, Florida Model Training
Office of Safe Schools [2023-2024]
References:
Elaine LaJeunesse CIV USAF AFMC 98 FSS/FSY_SLO
Team Eglin School Liaison Office & Manager
elaine.lajeunesse@us.af.mil
Lt. Colonel Blake Pierce
Hurlburt Field, FL 32544
rodneybp@gmail.com
Timeline
School Counselor
Okaloosa School District
01.2018 - Current
Associate Professor
Northwest Florida State College
08.2003 - 01.2013
Master of Science - Counseling And Psychology
Troy University
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
University of West Florida