Mrs. Pontidis received her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and her Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Montclair State University, as well as an additional Master’s Degree in School Counseling from Seton Hall University.  Mrs. Pontidis has experience in a K-12 setting working as a paraprofessional, special education teacher, school counselor, counseling supervisor, and building administrator.  Mrs. Pontidis strives on a culture of continuous learning, growth, and opportunity for her students, as well as understanding the importance of supporting her students with maintaining ongoing wellness and positive mental health.  Mrs. Pontidis is excited to join the Cedar Grove Public School District as a member of the School Counseling Department, and she can’t wait to support the district’s students and staff on a variety of tasks and initiatives.  

Mr. Sweeney received his bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Montclair State University and his Master in School Counseling from Creighton University . As a proud CGHS alumni, Mr. Sweeney is happy to be back in the Grove and always thinks it's a great day to be a panther!

Mrs. Lafoon received her Master’s in Counseling from Caldwell University, and  is also a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor.  She has previously helped adults, young adults, and their families who suffer from addiction and/or mental illness. Her passion has always been working with adolescents, so she left her position as a clinical therapist and pursued her certification for Student Assistance Counselor. She has an open door policy and is available to ALL students.   Additionally, she is the advisor for the Peer Leaders.

Mrs. Hampson joined the Office of School Counseling in September of 2019. Prior to that she was a paraprofessional for 2 years in Cedar Grove and 7 years in another school district. She has her substitute teaching certification and has a BA in Sociology from William Paterson University. She loves working with and helping the students and enjoys it when they stop into the office. Among her main responsibilities is maintaining the students records and assisting with the Senior Scholarships.