Meet The Peterson C.A.R.E. Team

Caseload: Last Names Mc-Zmvyurick1@cps.edu

Caseload: Last Names A-Mckmwalker16@cps.edu

C.A.R.E. Team: Coordination, Assessment, Response, and Education

We are dedicated to fostering a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for all students. Our primary mission is to promote mental health and well-being, providing essential resources and support to help students navigate challenges both in and out of the classroom.

The CARE Team offers a range of services, including individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, and lessons focused on social-emotional learning. We collaborate closely with teachers, parents, and community organizations to create a holistic support system that encourages student growth and resilience.

By prioritizing mental health and fostering strong connections within the school community, the CARE Team empowers students to thrive academically and personally, ensuring that every child feels valued and supported.

Peterson CARE Team's Vision and Mission

Vision Statement
The CARE Team envisions a school community where every student feels safe, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. Through a proactive and compassionate approach to mental health and well-being, our school counselors and social workers strive to cultivate a culture of resilience, inclusivity, and academic success for all students.

Mission Statement
The CARE Team, including school counselors and social workers, is committed to fostering a nurturing and supportive environment that prioritizes student mental health and well-being. Through individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, social-emotional learning, and advocacy, we provide essential resources to help students navigate challenges both in and out of the classroom. By collaborating with teachers, families, and community partners, we create a comprehensive support system that strengthens student resilience, promotes positive connections, and ensures that every child feels valued and equipped for success.

Who We Are

Mrs. Yurick
School Social Worker

Caseload: Last Names Mc-Z
mvyurick1@cps.edu

Edgebrook Elementary SchoolVon Steuben Metropolitan Science CenterNorth Park University, B.A. in PsychologyUIC Master of Social Work & Post-MSW PEL Endorsement

Ms. Walker
School Social Worker

Caseload: Last Names A-Mc
kmwalker16@cps.edu

Plymouth Whitemarsh High School (PA)Goucher College (MD) B.A. in French and Art HistoryUniversity of Chicago Master of Social Work

Ms. Correa
School Counselor

Grades: 5th-8th Grade and Bilingual Classrooms
mcorrea27@cps.edu

Gabriela Mistral, Colombia until 5th gradeWaukegan High SchoolUniversity of Illinois at Chicago B.A.National Louis University M.A. in Counseling

Mrs. Vasilev
School Counselor

Grades: Pre-K - 4th Grade

Supportive with 8th Grade
svasilev1@cps.edu

Amundsen High SchoolUniversity of Illinois at Chicago B.A. in Applied PsychologyThe Chicago School of Professional Psychology M.A. in Counseling Psychology, Child & Adolescent TreatmentNortheastern University M.A. School Counseling Endorsement

What We Do

Social Worker Roles

Provides holistic support for students, including counseling, crisis intervention, and referrals to community agencies
Advocates for students' mental health, social-emotional well-being, and academic pursuits
Collaborates with school administrators to develop school discipline policies and mental health intervention
Consults with faculty, parents, and other parties about socio-cultural and emotional factors that impact a student's learning
Coordinates services to ensure students' needs are met
Develops and implements intervention and prevention programs that assist in the reduction of at-risk students
Participates on problem-solving teams in the school environment to support student success and collaborate with community agencies to promote accessibility of services to the school community and inclusion of student families
Personalizes student supports through use of curriculum supplements and technology resources
Provides IEP/504 plan evaluations and services