Hello Chaparral Students and Families,
I am thrilled to serve as the School Counselor at Chaparral Elementary! My journey in the district began in 2016 as a counselor at Poway High School, and I could not be happier to be a part of this incredible elementary community.
Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, I moved to San Diego in 2006. I earned my undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education from Ohio University and my Master’s in School Counseling from the University of San Diego. Outside of school, I love visiting family in Ohio, playing beach volleyball, riding my bike, reading, and cheering on my favorite sports teams.
Chaparral is a truly special campus with a dedicated, compassionate team. My goal every day is to ensure our students feel safe, respected, and valued while supporting their academic, social, and emotional growth. I look forward to working alongside our wonderful students, families, and staff this year!
I was born and raised here in sunny San Diego. I have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and a Preliminary Single Subject Teaching Credential in Social Science from San Diego State University. Previous to working as a Student Services Assistant, I worked as a Library Media Technician for Poway Unified and La Mesa Spring Valley School District. I love my job as an SSA! Leading Social Emotional Learning lessons and supporting students brings me much joy and fulfillment. I am so happy to be a part of the Chaparral family!
Elementary school counselors are here to support your child’s academic success, social-emotional growth, and career awareness. We work with students, families, and teachers to help every child feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.
How Counselors Support Children at School
Social Emotional Support
Teach lessons on friendship, kindness, respect, and problem-solving
Provide strategies for managing big feelings like worry, frustration, or anger
Offer small groups or one-on-one support for students who need extra help
Academic Support
Help students set goals and build confidence in their learning
Encourage organization, study habits, and perseverance
Partner with teachers to support classroom success
Career Support
Expose students to a wide variety of careers through books, speakers, and activities
Teach skills like teamwork, responsibility, and goal-setting
Help children understand how what they learn in school connects to their future
Family and Community Connection
Communicate with parents about concerns and celebrate student progress
Connect families with community resources when needed
Organize events that bring families into the learning process
Why It Matters?
Elementary years set the foundation for your child’s success in school and beyond. Counselors help students feel confident, capable, and connected—so they can thrive today and be prepared for tomorrow. They establish a crucial foundation for students' academic, social, and emotional growth during a critical developmental period. They provide essential services such as teaching social-emotional skills, supporting academic development through study skills and goal-setting, identifying student needs, and connecting students and families with resources. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, counselors help all students reach their full potential and prepare for future success.
Have questions or want to connect? Your school counselor is here to help! Please reach out anytime.
CALM DOWN CORNER
Short Term Individual Counseling
Small Group Counseling
Classroom Lessons
Staff and School Support
Community and Outside Referrals
504 and Response to Intervention Planning and Support
Creating Skills for Learning
Making and Keeping Friends
Setting Goals for Academic and Personal Success
Enhancing Teamwork and Leadership Skills
Feeling Good About Yourself
Adjusting and Enjoying School
Managing Your Feelings
Calming Down and Coping Strategies
Dealing with Peer Pressure and Bullying
Problem Solving
Exploring ways to help your student succeed in their social and emotional development
Providing support in helping students with their academic success
Improving ways to communicate with your child
Providing referrals to the Caring Connections or outside community resources