Michaela Bleeker
In her first year as a school counselor, Michaela Bleeker's favorite part is building relationships with the students she serves. "It helps me get a better understanding of where they are coming from to help them be successful." she said.
This week is National School Counseling Week. The week highlights the tremendous impact school counselors can have in helping students achieve school success and plan for a career.
Bleeker, a Newton native, majored in social work and psychology. A practicum in an elementary counseling program opened her eyes to the career. "I loved it," she said. She went back to school and graduated with a master's degree in school counseling.
As an elementary counselor, Bleeker is responsible for monthly guidance lessons, small groups, and individual counseling. A SAEBRS assessment is used to help identify students who could benefit from additional supports. The school counselor also relies on teacher and parent referrals. She knows the importance of a student's social and emotional health and its impact on academic success. "I also connect students and families with outside resources if needed," she said.
While her first year has been challenging, she is navigating the impact of the pandemic with other district counselors. "The job is so different this year so we're all learning together."
She is excited about the district's recent announcement of having a full time counselor in every school. Currently, she serves both Wilson and Eisenhower, spending 10 days at each school monthly. “I’m looking forward to the positive impact a full-time counselor will have on each school.”