Counselors
Meet our Counselors: Ms. Alyssa Alexander and Mr. William Thompson
- What inspired you to become a school counselor? What do you love most about your role in a school? We were inspired to become school counselors because we have a natural calling to help others. We think every student should feel supported, understood, and empowered to reach their full potential. Our role at Goodwin is so important because we're able to get to know kids beyond their identities as students and their academics. We get to know the "whole" student; their academics, their social emotional needs, plans for the future, life outside of school, etc.
- How do you support students in achieving their academic, personal, and college/career goals? The most important thing we do to support students in achieving their goals is advocate for equitable resources that allow them to be successful in school and in their communities. We spend a lot of time identifying and working to remove barriers that can prevent students from reaching their goals. It's important that we help students learn how to self-advocate for their needs with teachers, whether they are academic or personal. We provide students with a safe space to discuss challenges they may be facing and help them develop coping strategies and social-emotional skills to carry with them throughout life.
- What encouragement do you want to offer students and families to help them succeed? We want students and families to know that challenges and setbacks are a natural part of growth, and they should be seen as opportunities to learn and improve. Students should never be afraid to ask for help, take risks, and believe in their abilities. Families play a crucial role in providing encouragement and support, and open communication between students, parents, and educators is key. No matter what challenges they face, we want students to know they are capable, valued, and never alone in their journey.