School Counselors

MSA School Counseling Department

Mission Statement

The mission of the School Counseling Department at Manatee School for the Arts is to provide a proactive, data-driven program that impacts the development of all students; equipping students towards achievement in academics, social-emotional, and career development. The program’s goal is for each student to graduate high school, become lifelong learners, and become responsible members of society.

School Counselors are highly educated, certified professionals who help students find success in school while encouraging realistic pathways toward postsecondary achievement.

In A Nutshell, What Services Do School Counselors Provide?

  • Individual student academic planning and goal setting
  • School counseling classroom lessons based on student success standards
  • Small group counseling
  • Short-term counseling to support students with academics and behavior
  • Collaboration with families, teachers, administrators, and the community for student success
  • Advocacy for students at IEP meeting
  • Participate in student-focused meetings
  • Data analysis to identify student needs and challenges through the MTSS process
  • Coordinate 504 plans
  • Referrals for long-term community support

When Should Students Speak To A School Counselor? 

Students can speak to their counselor for any reason whether it’s school-related, personal, social, or emotional. Anytime students need support, they are welcome to reach out to their counselor. This year, we are asking high school students to make an appointment so that counselors can schedule uninterrupted time specifically for that student. Middle school students can stop by student support and request a meeting with their counselor via paper form. We want to make sure that we are accessible to all students. We are here to help. 

What Is The Best Way To Contact Your School Counselor?

Contact Us By Email, Google Classroom Page, Make An Appointment Via Google Calendar

 

High School Grades 9-12

DAWN DUCHARME

Professional School Counselor

Student Alpha A-K

dducharme@msaschool.org

Ext: 1204

BRIGGETT HARRIS

Professional School Counselor

Student Alpha L-Z

bharris@msaschool.org

Ext: 1129

HEATHER MILLS

College and Career Advisor

hmills@msaschool.org

Ext: 1128

504 Coordinator 

Grades 6-12

Middle School Grades 6-8

LISA GOULD

Grades 6-12 (All 504 Students)

ligould@msaschool.org

Ext: 1030

MONETTA MANCUSO

Professional School Counselor

Grade 6 & Grade 8 A-li

mmancuso@msaschool.org

Ext: 1029

ALEX SMERECZNIK

Professional School Counselor

Grade 7 & Grade 8 Ll-Z

asmerecznik@msaschool.org

Ext: 1151

 


Important Links Provided by Your School Counselor

How School Counselors Help
Tips For A Successful School Year
Graduation Requirements
Testing
School Counselors

 

 

Getting Along With Your Teachers

How to Make Homework Less Work

Florida High School Graduation Requirements

Florida Virtual School

Course Description

SAT Testing

ACT Testing

Florida FSA/EOC

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