My name is Ann Christensen, and I am blessed to serve as the K–12 School Counselor at St. Mary’s. I truly believe the Holy Spirit has called me to this role, and I am grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside students and families each day.

I grew up near Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and now live on a farm, with my husband, Mark. It was quite a culture shock at first, but now I cannot imagine living anywhere else. God truly places us where we are meant to be, and I feel grateful to call this community home. Together, we have been blessed with three sons—Noah, Eli, and Isaac.

In my role as school counselor, I support students’ academic, social-emotional, and career development. I meet with students individually to provide personalized guidance and support, facilitate small groups to build connection and shared learning, and regularly visit elementary classrooms to teach age-appropriate social-emotional skills. These interactions are essential in helping students feel known, supported, and confident, while also proactively building skills such as empathy, communication, problem-solving, and emotional regulation.

I work with students to build strong relationships, develop resilience and decision-making skills, and navigate both everyday challenges and significant life transitions. I also collaborate closely with teachers, families, and staff to ensure each student is supported and able to thrive.

In addition, I teach a College and Career Readiness course for all seniors designed to help students confidently prepare for life after high school. Throughout the course, students engage in a variety of practical and meaningful experiences, including personality assessments, job shadowing opportunities, college applications, scholarship work, financial planning, basic car maintenance, and introductory sewing skills. These experiences are intentionally designed to equip students with essential life skills—helping them better understand themselves, make informed decisions, manage responsibilities, and develop independence as they transition into adulthood.

At St. Mary’s, my goal is to guide students in their faith journey while providing them with the best possible educational and personal experience. I am very committed to supporting each child’s growth—academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually—as we work together to help them become the individuals God is calling them to be.

Please feel free to reach out to me at any time. I look forward to partnering with you in supporting your child.

God Bless,

Mrs. C.

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