Dear Murray Middle School Families,
I hope this message finds you well! My name is Emily DeSpain, and I am excited to introduce myself as one of the school counselors at Charles P. Murray Middle School for the 2026–2027 school year. I will be supporting all 7th grade students and 8th grade students with last names A–K.
As a school counselor, my primary goal is to support the whole student and help students feel successful, supported, and connected at school. I look forward to partnering with students, families, teachers, administrators, and our community to create a positive and supportive environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive.
Throughout the school year, I will work with students in three primary areas:
Academic Development: Helping students develop organizational and study skills, set academic goals, navigate challenges, and connect with resources that support their success in the classroom.
Social and Emotional Development: Supporting students with friendships, conflict resolution, coping skills, self-advocacy, decision-making, stress management, and other concerns that may affect their ability to learn and succeed.
College and Career Development: Helping students explore their interests, strengths, career possibilities, high school opportunities, and the steps they can begin taking now to prepare for their future.
School counseling services may look different depending on a student's individual needs. Services may include individual counseling, small-group counseling, classroom counseling lessons, consultation with teachers and families, academic and behavioral support, and referrals to additional school or community resources when appropriate.
Students may request to meet with me when they have a concern, need someone to talk with, or would like additional support. Teachers, administrators, and parents/guardians may also reach out to request counseling support for a student.
Please know that school counseling is designed to provide short-term, solution-focused support within the school setting. When a student needs support that extends beyond the scope of school counseling, I will work with families to help connect them with appropriate school or community resources.
Communication and collaboration with families are an important part of supporting our students. Throughout the school year, I may communicate with families through email, phone calls, parent conferences, and other school-wide communication. I encourage you to reach out whenever you have a question, concern, or information that you feel would help me better support your student.
I also encourage families to stay connected with Murray Middle School and take advantage of opportunities to be involved in our school community. Joining the PTA is a wonderful way to become involved, connect with other families, and support our students and school.
My door is always open to students and families, and I look forward to getting to know you and your student throughout the school year. Thank you for trusting me to be a part of your student's educational journey. I am excited about the year ahead and look forward to working together to help our students learn, grow, and succeed!
Warm regards,
Emily DeSpain
School Counselor
Charles P. Murray Middle School
Email: emily.despain@nhcs.net
Phone: (910) 790-2351