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Mr. Atkins - Alpha: A - Cra (+ Newcomers)
Mr. Atkins - Alpha: A - Cra (+ Newcomers)
I am going into my 17th year as a counselor. I started my career at West Ranch High School. From there I have worked at several different schools in our district; Valencia High School, Hart-at-Home/Learning Post, and Sequoia. This is my 8th year at La Mesa.
I got into counseling as a way to support students one-on-one. I have worked with young people since I was 14 years old. It is truly a passion of mine. I am available to help each student in many different ways such as: academic, career and personal social. Anything you need, please do not hesitate to contact me!!
Fun Facts:
I worked at a top talent agency in Hollywood before entering into education.
I was born in Guam and grew up in the Philippines.
I am a HUGE USC fan!! Fight on!!
I have been married for 14 years to my wife Kristin, who has has been a teacher for 18 years, and have two sons. Kiernan is 10 years old and starting fourth grade. Kyson is 5 years old.
Education:
A.A. in Communications from Moorpark College
B..A in Film Studies and History from University of California, Santa Barbara
M.S. in Counseling and Guidance from California Lutheran University
M.A. in Educational Leadership from California Lutheran University
Contact Me:
Email: katkins@hartdistrict.org
Text: (661) 270-6878
Call: (661) 250-0022 x121
Mrs. Mancini - Alpha: Cre - Jos
Mrs. Mancini - Alpha: Cre - Jos
Hi, I am Mrs. Mancini, counselor for students with last names Dem - Lar. This is my seventh year as a counselor at La Mesa. I am looking forward to getting to know my students and helping them get the most out of their junior high experience!
I became a counselor because I love helping students dream big dreams and meet their goals. I first discovered I loved working with students when I volunteered as a camp counselor for USC's Troy Camp!
I received my Bachelor's degree in Broadcast and Digital Journalism from USC (Fight On!) and my Master's degree in Counseling from California State University, Northridge.
Fun Facts:
I love musicals and singing, and I can turn just about anything into a song (like Buddy from the movie Elf).
I love traveling to visit family in Italy, and chances are I'm going to have some pasta for dinner tonight.
I have a three-year-old daughter named Francesca.
One of my favorite quotes is: “We do not need magic to change the world, we carry all the power we need inside ourselves already: we have the power to imagine better.” - J. K. Rowling
Contact Me:
Email: mmancini@hartdistrict.org (best way to reach me)
Call: (661) 250-0022 x122
Mr. Paterson - Team Panthers and Cougars
Mr. Paterson - Team Panthers and Cougars
My name is Steve Paterson, I have been counseling for 17 years at only La Mesa. In fact, while with the Hart district, I have only been at La Mesa. I was a teacher here before that. La Mesa is like my second family! I grew up in Texas and New Mexico. I went to University of Utah for my under-grad degree. I moved to California in 1988. I worked at a non-public school for 9 years as a counselor for emotionally disturbed adolescents. I cherish my family and look forward to each day I am alive.
Contact Me:
Email: spaterson@hartdistrict.org
Text: (661) 270-6435
Call: (661) 250-0022 x125
Ms. Quinn - Alpha: Jot - P
Ms. Quinn - Alpha: Jot - P
Hello, my name is Madelynn Quinn and I am the counselor for students with last names Jot - P. This is my fourth year at La Mesa and I am so grateful to be a part of the Lobo family! I am very excited and fortunate to have this opportunity to provide academic, college & career, and social-emotional support to my students. I look forward to getting to know the La Mesa students and families. I hope that together we can have the most successful year!
Fun Facts:
I was a high school math teacher at Hart High School before coming to La Mesa.
I attended La Mesa in the 8th grade - go Lobos!
My favorite vacation destination is the British Virgin Islands.
I love being active - working out, hiking, snowboarding, etc.
Education:
B.S. in Business Marketing from San Diego State University
M.Ed. in Teacher Education from University of La Verne
M.S. in Educational Counseling from University of La Verne
Contact Me:
Email: mquinn@hartdistrict.org
Call: (661) 250-0022 x123
Mrs. Ramos - Alpha: Q - Z
Mrs. Ramos - Alpha: Q - Z
Hello everyone! My name is Nadya Ramos. I am the counselor for students with last names Ran-Z. Thrillingly, my journey involving school counseling is only just beginning! I have been given the incredible opportunity to be a substitute counselor here at La Mesa Junior High. I am truly excited to embark on this adventure as a school counselor by making a meaningful impact and serving a purpose in students' lives.
Fun Facts:
Both of my parents are from Germany and thanks to them, I know how to speak German!
When I have the time, I love to go out and travel. I have visited a few places such as Hawaii, New York, Thailand, Germany, Spain as well as others and hopefully more to come.
I am a total animal lover and I hope to have my own rescue one day!
Education:
AA in Communications from College of the Canyons
BA in Communications from California State University of Northridge
M.S. in Educational Counseling from University of La Verne
Contact Me:
Email: nspeicher@hartdistrict.org
Call: (661) 250-0022 x126
Ms. Yvette Loredo Del Toro - Wellness Coordinator
Ms. Yvette Loredo Del Toro - Wellness Coordinator
Hi All! I'm Ms. Yvette, and I am La Mesa Junior High’s Wellness Coordinator. I've been providing mental health and wellness support in schools for over 10 years. I received my MSW from UCLA. Go Bruins! My goal this school year is to promote our on-campus Wellness Center as a safe place for students (and parents!) to request support, build community, and learn about mental health and wellness.
Fun Facts:
I went to a Zoology Magnet High School and used to work at the LA Zoo as an education specialist. I looooove dogs and am currently a puppy raiser for the bestest service dog in training, Leroy!
I love celebrating my culture and my favorite holiday is Dia de Los Muertos.
I struggled in high school and received my diploma through an adult school program. Now I have a master's degree from UCLA. Go Bruins! If I can do it, so can you! I'm here to help support you along the way.
Contact Me:
Email: yloredodeltoro@hartdistrict.org
Call: (661) 250-0022 x161
Ms. Castaneda - School Social Worker
Ms. Castaneda - School Social Worker
Hi, I’m Molly Castaneda , District School Social Worker serving La Mesa Jr. High. This is my 3rd year in the School Social Worker role, yet My first year as the LM SSW. My role is to offer direct support in areas of/in relation to attendance, basic needs and linking families to community resources and services.
Fun Facts:
I worked at La Mesa as the ASB Counseling Secretary for 8 school years.
Working at La Mesa inspired me to go back to school after my son graduated high school to complete my BA in Sociology. I went on to get a MS in Educational Counseling with a concentration in School Based Family Counseling.
I love to play my guitars and dabble into writing and creating my own music.
Contact Me:
Email: mcastaneda@hartdistrict.org
Call: (661) 250-0022 x220
Cell: 661-430-3609
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