National School Counseling Week 2024

The week of February 5-9 is National School Counseling Week, a week dedicated to highlighting and celebrating the impact school counselors have on student success.

At Lincoln Public Schools, we're fortunate to have a team of approximately 134 school counselors who work at both the district and building level to help students achieve success, and plan for their future. We did a Q&A with a few of them to learn more about them, their careers, and their "why" that serves as the motivation for all they do for students. 

Mattie Trejo Amen, Humann Elementary

Where did you attend college?

Undergrad: UNL

Grad: Doane

What made you want to become a school counselor?

Relationships! Through my past experiences teaching in LPS and New Orleans, I was able to experience how important relationships are and I wanted to provide a bridge for students and adults to build positive relationships at school and in their future lives. 

What is your favorite thing about your job - what is your "why"?

My favorite thing about my job is that I get to work with all students K-5 and help them grow emotionally and academically in their school career. I have the privilege of supporting about 500 students and I look forward to making a positive impact on them every school year. 

Why is it important for students to have access to a counselor at school?

It is important for students to have access to a school counselor because they play an important role in providing positive educational experiences for all students through classroom lessons and small groups. School counselors provide support for students so that they can be the best versions of themselves at school, outside of school, and in the future as an adult some day.  

 

Joe Coleman, Goodrich Middle School

Where did you attend college?

UNL and Doane

What made you want to become a school counselor?

Starting at Goodrich as a registrar six years ago and working directly with the counseling department in that capacity, which is where I got a nudge from one of the counselors at the time to throw my hat in the ring and go back to school for my degree. 

What is your favorite thing about your job - what is your "why"?

Knowing each day will be different, and finding out the best way to help students in our ever-changing environment (I imagine I'll always be working on this piece). 

Why is it important for students to have access to a counselor at school?

Because each journey is different, and everyone needs support in one way or another. While all students may not utilize or feel they need a counselor, I think it's crucial that we provide that opportunity to see a part of school that isn't purely academic, and gives another avenue for students to explore. 

 

James Watson Jr., Lincoln North Star High School

Where did you attend college?

Doane

What made you want to become a school counselor?

After teaching Special Education for 8 years or so, one of the counselors (Becky Tegeler) asked me if I ever thought about being a counselor. At the time, I said no. She told me it was pretty similar to things that I was already doing and I should look into it. Three weeks later, I started my first class.

What is your favorite thing about your job - what is your "why"?

I really enjoy getting to interact with so many different students. I enjoy interacting with students that I would not normally get to see in the classroom or at a practice.

Why is it important for students to have access to a counselor at school?

It’s important for students to have access to a school counselor at school to get academic, emotional, and postsecondary support. While there are many staff members in a school setting that support students, counselors are able to connect with students individually and have conversations with them about their goals, concerns, and achievements. Often times students may feel more at ease knowing they have a counselor to speak with, because their counselor isn’t involved in discipline or grading. Counselors are skilled in multiple areas and can provide guidance regarding academic options for students, and can provide students with resources to help in all aspects of their life.

 

Sara Majid, Lincoln Southwest High School

 Where did you attend college?

Bachelor's at UNL and MA at Doane University

What made you want to become a school counselor?

Over the past eight years, I've dedicated myself to elementary education, teaching third and fourth-grade students and occasionally stepping in as a substitute teacher in middle and high schools. I have had the privilege of encountering students from diverse backgrounds, each sharing their unique struggles, dreams, aspirations, and goals. In the pursuit of fostering holistic development, I recognized the imperative of integrating Maslow's hierarchy of needs into our instructional approach, complemented by Bloom's taxonomy. Acknowledging the profound interconnectedness of mental and physical well-being, I endeavored to ensure that students were not merely present in body but also engaged in mind. Guided by a dedication to nurturing students' self and academic paths, I aim to furnish them with essential skills, ensuring success beyond high school and proficiency in the real world. As a classroom facilitator, I frequently found myself yearning for a more comprehensive set of tools to address the social and emotional needs of my students and their families. Motivated by a profound sense of purpose and an unwavering passion, I embarked on a counseling journey while maintaining a full-time teaching role. Observing the positive impact of counseling in the classroom, I felt compelled to enhance my ability to offer personalized support, leading me to shift my career focus toward counseling.

What is your favorite thing about your job - what is your "why"?

One of the most fulfilling parts of my job is helping students plan their high school and post-secondary paths. Learning about their individual aspirations and career goals allows me to offer personalized support, whether it's through one-on-one consultations or group counseling sessions, all done within the context of careful scheduling and strategic planning. Graduating from high school can be a challenging and stressful time, so it's an ideal moment for intervention. By helping them create a well-structured plan for life after school and teaching them social skills, I can help alleviate their anxieties and provide a sense of comfort, challenge, and empowerment to the individuals I work with. It's truly rewarding to see their confidence and happiness as they achieve their goals through hard work and the tools they garner in their toolboxes to be able to create their homes and the pathways to get there as they overcome their inner struggles and challenges.

Why is it important for students to have access to a counselor at school?

Access to a school counselor is crucial for various reasons that encompass the holistic development of students. Firstly, counselors play a pivotal role in facilitating student achievement by offering academic guidance, aiding in the improvement of study habits, time management skills, and assisting with academic planning. Moreover, they contribute significantly to improving attendance and behavior, fostering a positive learning environment. Acting as champions for students, counselors identify and nurture areas of strength and interests, helping shape future career paths. Additionally, they play a vital role in planning for college, connecting students to communities and organizations, and enhancing social skills. In essence, school counselors serve as invaluable resources that contribute to the overall well-being and success of students throughout their academic journey. 

“A counselor is the voice of the unheard, the champion of the defeated, the compass of the lost, the supporter of the pursuer.” ~Sara Majid

 

Melissa Sellon, LPS Focus Programs

(Arts & Humanities, Science, Bryan Community, Bay High)

Where did you attend college?

UNL, UNO

What made you want to become a school counselor?

I started as a high school Spanish teacher, and loved spending time with my students hearing all about their lives, their struggles and their successes.  After four years, I realized Spanish was my love, but being with kids in the present moment was where I excelled.  I decided to go back to school to get my counseling degree

What is your favorite thing about your job - what is your "why"?

My favorite thing about my job is being able to provide a space for kids to dream about their futures, pursue their passions and problem solve.  It's a privilege to sit and listen to them.

Why is it important for students to have access to a counselor at school?

School counselors are well versed in many skills.  It's important for everyone to have a positive, trusting adult in their life.  Having a school counselor is both a trusting adult, but also someone with several resources and skills that are helpful for kids to access.  We can help you with a current problem.  We can help you plan for your future.  We can help you with getting to next steps.  We can help you reach goals. We're a jack of all trades!

---