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School Counselors

Counseling Staff

School Counselors

Pamela Pellegrino x1449 - Grade 8

Melissa Lake x1422 - Grade 7

Julie Salisbury x1447 - Grade 6

Social Worker

Paige Noland

Our counselors play a vital role in supporting the academic, social-emotional, and career development of students in grades 6–8. Their work aligns with the Massachusetts Model for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs and national standards set by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA).

Middle school counselors are licensed educators with specialized training in school counseling. They are essential in helping students navigate the complex academic and developmental challenges of adolescence.

  1. Academic Support

    • Help students set academic goals and develop effective study habits.

    • Monitor student progress and collaborate with teachers and families to address academic concerns.

    • Assist with course planning and scheduling.
       

  2. Social-Emotional Development

    • Provide individual and group counseling on issues like anxiety, peer conflict, bullying, and self-esteem.

    • Teach classroom lessons on topics such as emotional regulation, conflict resolution, and decision-making.

    • Promote a safe and inclusive school environment.
       

  3. Career and College Awareness

    • Introduce students to career exploration tools and early planning for high school pathways.

    • Help students identify interests and strengths using career inventories and self-assessments.
       

  4. Crisis Intervention and Referral

    • Respond to students in crisis (e.g., mental health concerns, family emergencies).

    • Collaborate with school psychologists, social workers, and outside agencies to connect families with appropriate resources
       

  5. Collaboration and Advocacy

    • Act as a liaison between students, families, teachers, and administrators.

    • Advocate for equitable access to education and mental health services for all students.

Vision StatementWe Learn, Grow and Care Through Rigor, Relevance, and Relationship

Our mission is to prepare all students to be "Future Ready," by encouraging them to acquire the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to succeed academically, professionally, and as productive citizens in our community and society.  Nantucket school counselors are committed to delivering a developmentally comprehensive school-counseling program to all students.  We strive to serve as advocates for students, allies with teachers, and liaisons with parents and community.