They help students navigate the college application process and get the most out of their middle and high school experiences. For these reasons and more, Mahopac Central School District celebrated the contributions of its 12 school counselors last week.
“In honor of the 2024 National School Counseling Week (February 5-9), we took time to celebrate our PAC School Counselors for their unique contributions and the support they provide our students,” said April Ljumic, administrator of school counseling K-12. “Their hard work makes a huge difference in the lives of our students each day. They have an enduring commitment to cultivate, support, guide and inspire students to reimagine the limitless possibilities in their future.”
The week was marked by special morning announcements highlighting the work of school counselors and urging students to speak to their counselor. Ljumic went on to say that she has seen firsthand how guidance counselors help students to explore their strengths, interests, talents and potentials, and play a critical role as part of the educational team.
“Counselors provide invaluable support to students as they navigate the social, emotional and academic complexities of personal growth and explore college and career pathways,” she said. “Counselors do these things while ensuring that every student feels heard, understood, and supported. This is critical work they undertake every day.”
The Mahopac Central School District thanks its counselors: (High School) Marianna Callagy, Terry Lauchman, Julie Cummins, Trina Capone, Anna Boyle, Peter Vanno, Jaclyn Mittman and Justin Ciaramella, (Middle School) Janice Leo, Stephanie Powers, Allison Pugliese, and Anthony Reda, and (Elementary School) Julie Turchioe