School Counseling Week - Thank You to Our Counselors!
February 3-7 is National School Counseling Week, highlighting the tremendous impact school counselors have in helping students achieve academic success and planning for a career.
School counselors work with students in many ways, such as classroom lessons, group sessions, and individual counseling.
Below are examples of some of our exemplary school counselors. The following were chosen as finalists for the 2024 Outstanding School-Based Professional Employee Award. The excerpts are from their nomination packets.
Allison Warren, school counselor at Centreville High School
Allison is known for her dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to students, families, and teachers. As a school counselor with two decades of experience, she consistently exceeds expectations in supporting students’ academic, career, and personal development.
One of Allison’s standout qualities is her deep empathy and approachability. She connects with individuals on a personal level and ensures that her guidance and support are always grounded in genuine care and understanding. With a caseload of more than 250 students and as an advisor to multiple organizations, it is noteworthy that students know Mrs. Warren is available to them and makes them feel like they have someone in their corner.
Allison’s office is a safe harbor for students who need a trusted listener and supportive advocate,” said colleague Kara Stamper, who nominated Allison. “She has created a critical haven for students to seek guidance, someone to mediate conflict, help them process problems, and come up with actionable goals and plans. I am in awe of how hard she works and how much she does to help every student at Centreville feel like a part of the community.”
Allison has made an “immeasurable impact” on her students and colleagues, said Chad Lehman, former principal of Centreville High School who now serves as an executive principal for Region 5.
“She can often be seen meeting with individual students in her office, talking with administrators and other support staff, compiling data for the school improvement plan, or speaking in front of a packed auditorium of parents sharing valuable information,” he continued. “What sets Allison apart is her ability to balance the demands of her position and the extra responsibilities she assumes with the ability to remain personally connected to her students and the staff she supports.”
Alice L. Whitener, school counselor at Madison High School
Alice thrives on building relationships, a passion that fuels her success as a school counselor. She fosters connections with families, teachers, and the community to create a network that supports students’ academic and personal growth. Alice values collaboration and creativity, enjoying the opportunity to work on a team that seeks solutions that are student-focused.
She leads with empathy, humor, and enthusiasm. Alice loves being part of the Madison High School community, acting as a lead advocate for the College Partnership Program, a senior class sponsor, and a member of the MAD WINGS team. Her commitment to fostering a positive and collaborative school environment makes her an invaluable asset to the school.
Even though she only recently transferred to Madison, “Ms. Whitener has quickly established herself as a leader in our school community through her unwavering commitment to her students and families,” said Tim Buckley, director of student services. “Ms. Whitener has led our academic advising program the last two years and has helped create an innovative and fresh approach to how our department has conducted our academic advising for students.”
Tim said several parents have indicated Alice is their student's “most trusted adult” in the building. “She takes the time to listen to people and has an uncanny ability to remember what people have told her,” he said.
“Ms. Whitener possesses a remarkable ability to foster cooperative relationships with colleagues, parents, and community members,” said Principal Liz Calvert. “She has been instrumental in the work to support students through MTSS and chronic absenteeism efforts. She builds individualized support teams that include clinical staff, specialists, teachers, parents, and students. This dedication to building bridges has strengthened the school's connection to the community and ensures that diverse voices are heard and valued.”
