I am Laura Wills, the school psychologist at Alston Ridge Elementary. Born in North Carolina, I spent my growing up years in Germany and Charleston, South Carolina. I completed a B.A. in psychology at Clemson University before entering the School Psychology program at The Citadel where I earned a Masters in Education and an Educational Specialist degree in School Psychology. After working several years in Dorchester 2 School District, I relocated to Wake Forest with my family and have been working in Wake County Schools since 1998. I believe educators have the privilege and responsibility to support students in reaching their goals while also encouraging and fostering their hopes and dreams. I am passionate about educating the “whole” child, seeing the child despite challenges they face, and supporting families in advocating for their child’s success. Away from work, Ms. Wills enjoys watching old movies (especially musicals), walking on the beach, college football, shopping, and spending time with family.
School psychologists are specially trained and licensed to provide a wide variety of services that help students succeed academically, socially and emotionally. In collaboration with educators, parents/guardians and other mental health professionals, school psychologists strive not only to create safe, healthy and supportive learning environments for all students, but also to strengthen connections between home and school. Utilizing leadership, advocacy and collaboration, school psychologists promote overall academic success by providing services that enhance the student, school, home and community partnerships and alleviate barriers to learning. Read more...
Every school has access to the services of a school psychologist, although some school psychologists serve two or more schools so may not be at a particular school every day. Most often, school psychologists can be reached by inquiring at the school directly, the district's central office, or locating contact information on the school or district website.