STAFF

Mr. Gabriel Farr

Mr. Farr is entering his first year at Howell High School and his fifth year as a school counselor. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Justice and Public Policy and Psychology from Concordia University in Ann Arbor, where he also played both baseball and basketball. He went on to complete his Master’s degree in Counseling at Concordia University – Wisconsin.Before becoming a school counselor, Mr. Farr gained valuable experience working in Community Outreach for the Washtenaw County Sheriff's Department, Multicultural Health Services with Michigan Medicine, and in Residence Life at Concordia University. He has also been coaching baseball since 2018 at both the college and varsity levels. Mr. Farr and his wife, Nadia, have two children — Crew and Mercy. Outside of school, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, being outdoors or in the water, and watching movies. He’s excited to join the Highlander community and looks forward to getting to know the students at Howell High School!

     Ms. Deschenes is beginning her 23rd year working at Howell High School.  This is her 14th year as a counselor in the 10-12 building.  Her first 9 years at Howell High School were spent at the Freshman Campus as a special education teacher.  She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences and Learning Disabilities from Madonna University and her Master’s degree in School Counseling from Western Michigan University.  Ms. Deschenes thoroughly enjoys working with students and parents in the Howell community, including her role as counselor for the International Exchange students at Howell High School.  She has three children, including two Howell High School graduates and a son who currently attends Howell High School. Outside of school Ms. Deschenes enjoys camping, swimming, bike riding, going for walks with her dogs, and spending time with her children.   

Mr. Bentley is beginning his 7th year as a school counselor.  He earned a BA in Biopsychology and Masters of Education from Grand Valley State University.  Mr. Bentley is also the head coach for Howell freshman football, supervises the school’s Dungeons & Dragons Club, is a Curriculum Development Liaison and is also the Future Ready Goal Chair for the School Improvement Team. He works to support students regarding academics, college/career preparation, and social/emotional growth.  Outside of school Mr. Bentley enjoys reading comic books, weightlifting, and spending time with his family. 

Mrs. Marcum is beginning her 23rd year as a school counselor.  She is the Counseling department head and a Hope Squad Advisor. Previously she was a full time clinical therapist and currently maintains a small practice today.  Mrs. Marcum’s career highlights include presenting at a national Character Education conference in Washington D.C., being named Challenge Day Coordinator of the Month in 2004 and teaching Health class for eight years.  She loves being a school counselor and finds that her favorite part is connecting with students and building relationships. Mrs. Marcum is married to her husband, Ron and has two boys who are both graduates from Howell High School.  She likes to spend her time reading, working out in her home gym, doing yoga, volunteering at the Livingston County Animal Shelter and playing with her four dogs, Izzy, Rocco, Roxy and Nala.

     Ms. Wagner earned her master’s degree in Education with a specialization in School Counseling from Northwestern State University of Louisiana. Her undergrad was done at Siena Heights University where she played both volleyball and basketball. She has 27 years of coaching, teaching and counseling experience. Ms. Wagner and her husband, Chris have five children. The oldest just had grand baby number two and the youngest is a Freshan in college. Ms. Wagner is currently the 8th grade Volleyball coach at Highlander Way. She is also a licensed massage therapist and breeds Labrador Retrievers.

Mr. Kurt Roy-Borland (KRB)

Mr. Kurt Roy-Borland is excited to be a Highlander. He enjoys time on his small family farm planting his garden and tending his orchard; as well as sailing on the Great Lakes. As a Sparty/Eagles grad, and having worked for the U for over a decade he enjoys watching football, leading wilderness trips, and practicing traditional living skills. He looks forward to meeting you all, and getting to know each of you better.

Ms. Diana Haaseth

After spending 24 years at Highlander Way Middle School, Ms. Haaseth is excited to take on a new adventure with 9th graders as they make the big leap into high school. She loves being part of this important transition and helping students find their footing in a new chapter.

At home, life is full! She’s married, has a daughter, two dogs, and two cats who keep things lively. She’s active in the local 4-H dog group, where she enjoys working with kids and their pups. When she’s not at school, you’ll likely find her working out, baking desserts, digging in the garden, tackling a home project, or heading up north to relax and recharge. Time with family and friends is her favorite way to spend a weekend.