M.Ed. in School Counseling, Southeastern Oklahoma State University, anticipated 2026
Master's in Teaching (MAT)- Elementary/Middle School Education, Olivet Nazarene University, 2009
B.A. in Psychology, Olivet Nazarene University, 2006
Professional Educator License (PEL), State of Illinois, 2009-current
Educator Certification, State of Oklahoma, 2024-current
"I am thrilled to serve as U7’s School Counselor this year after a transition from 6 years of classroom teaching and another 2 as a special education aide. My passion for education stems from a teacher who took a special interest in me, fostering a sense of hope and confidence that sparked my lifelong love of learning.
Throughout my time as a professional educator, I have worked extensively with diverse learners, tailoring support to meet students where they are. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where all students can thrive. I believe education is the great equalizer, empowering every child to achieve academic success, dream big, and develop the social-emotional skills necessary for healthy relationships at school and home.
In my first year as a school counselor, I have successfully implemented attendance interventions, reducing chronic absenteeism by 24%. I specialize in building positive relationships with students, families, and educational stakeholders, fostering a school culture of support and encouragement. My professional interests include trauma-responsive practices and grief support, and I am currently pursuing specialized training to better assist students facing loss. As a member of the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) and Oklahoma School Counselor Association (OSCA) I seek professional development opportunities to stay current in school counseling and education best practices.
My goal is to provide pathways of hope for all students and families, ensuring they feel seen, supported, and empowered throughout their educational journey. "
Warmly,
Erin R. Ward, 7th Grade Lead School Counselor
School Counselors are certified/licensed professional educators who support and improve student achievement and success through data-informed decision making and comprehensive, intentional programming. The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) provides a framework that ensures a comprehensive data-driven and student-centered approach that is both proactive and responsive to the needs of educational stakeholders. School counselors establish programming through 4 components defined by the ASCA National Model Framework including Define, Manage, Deliver, and Assess:
1. Define - Programming is designed by the school counselor through the lens of a set professional and student standards defined by the American School Counselor Association called the ASCA Student Mindsets and Behaviors.
2. Manage- Data collection is vital for managing a school counseling program. School counselors make data-driven decisions and use researched approaches to develop annual outcome goals, implementing various strategies and activities to inspire school-wide positive change.
3. Deliver- Services and interventions are strategically provided and measured. Every student participates in proactive, Tier 1 support, while more focused, responsive support is given to smaller groups of students.
4. Assess- Program delivery outcomes are measured for efficacy of services and impact, then shared with various stakeholders. School counselors reflect and aim to improve their services and expertise.
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