February 2026

National School Counselors Week, celebrated February 2–6, is a time to recognize the incredible impact school counselors have on students’ academic success, career development, and social-emotional well-being. Throughout our district, we are proud to shine a spotlight on the dedicated professionals who support, guide, and advocate for our students every day.

At John Fenwick Academy, Mr. Adam Pszwaro works closely with our youngest learners in grades K–2. Through classroom lessons, small groups, and individual support, he helps students build foundational skills in emotional regulation, friendship, problem-solving, and confidence—setting the stage for lifelong success. Mr. Pszwaro shares, "What I love most about working in Salem City School District is the strong sense of community and the genuine commitment to students’ success. Salem is a place where relationships truly matter, and you can feel the dedication from staff, families, and community members alike. I appreciate the opportunity to build meaningful connections with students and watch them grow—not just academically, but as confident, resilient individuals. Being part of a district that values collaboration, student support, and community engagement makes the work incredibly rewarding." Additionally, Mr. Pszwaro would like to share with the students of Salem that, "You matter, you are capable, and you are never alone. No matter what challenges you may be facing—academically, socially, or personally—your voice has value and your future has purpose. Mistakes do not define you; they are opportunities to learn and grow. Each of you has unique strengths and talents, and our goal is to help you recognize them and build confidence in who you are becoming. At Salem, there are adults who care deeply about your success and wellbeing. We are here to support you, encourage you, and walk alongside you as you grow. Believe in your potential—even on the days when it feels difficult—because you are capable of more than you realize."

At Salem Middle School, Ms. Kaitlin Weidner and Mr. Gary Crowe support students in grades 3–8 during some of their most transformative years. They assist students in navigating academic expectations, peer relationships, and personal growth while fostering resilience and responsibility. In addition to providing individual and small-group support, they lead impactful HIB (Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying) presentations that educate students on recognizing, preventing, and responding to bullying behaviors. Through these interactive sessions, they promote empathy, digital citizenship, and accountability, helping students understand the power of their words and actions.

In their short time in the district, Ms. Weidner and Mr. Crowe have already built an exceptional rapport with students. Their approachable demeanor, consistency, and genuine care have created strong, trusting relationships that make students feel seen, heard, and supported. By fostering open communication and modeling respect, they have quickly become trusted advocates within the school community, strengthening the overall sense of safety, connection, and belonging at Salem Middle School.

At Salem High School, Ms. Regina Gatson and Mr. David Hunt guide our high school students as they prepare for life beyond graduation, and both offer twenty-one years of service to the field of counseling. From course selection and college and career planning, they ensure students are equipped with the tools and confidence needed for their next chapter. Mr. Hunt provided advice to Salem students, stating: "Always set goals and never DOUBT yourself," while Ms. Gatson would like the students of Salem to know, "Kindness and positivity, combined with students who strive to do their best, reap success."

We celebrate their unwavering dedication, compassion, and commitment to our students and families. Our counselors are champions for safe, healthy, inclusive, nurtured, and empowered school communities. Please join us in thanking them for the meaningful difference they make each and every day!

At SMS, they are excited to launch a new attendance incentive program designed to promote responsibility, connection, and positive peer support: Accountabilibuddy.

The term accountabilibuddy—a blend of “accountability” and “buddy”—means a person who helps another stay responsible for their actions, goals, or tasks. At SMS, they are putting that concept into action to support improved student attendance in a meaningful and motivating way.

The program focuses on identifying our chronically absent “bubble” students—those who currently have 9–10 absences. School staff will meet individually with each of these students to discuss the importance of attendance and invite them to select a trusted friend to serve as their Accountabilibuddy. Buddies should have strong attendance themselves and, when possible, be in the same grade and class to provide daily encouragement and accountability. Once paired, both students will meet with staff to review expectations: consistent attendance through February 27th is required in order to earn a Pizza Party celebration. The goal is for partners to motivate one another each day encouraging each other to be present and prepared for school. Students are encouraged to track their attendance using sticker charts, calendars, or other creative tools to stay focused and celebrate progress along the way.

Accountabilibuddy reinforces that attendance is not just an individual responsibility, it’s a team effort. By building peer support and shared goals, SMS is empowering students to show up for themselves and for each other.

As our district continues to prioritize student mental health, engagement, and attendance, we encourage staff to view the recorded edWebinar: SEL Strategies to Empower Students and Educators Through a Multi-Tiered Approach.

This session offers practical, research-based strategies to help students regulate emotions, manage behaviors, and advocate for their needs all while strengthening academic outcomes. Participants will hear real stories from the field that demonstrate how social-emotional learning can be intentionally integrated across roles, from classroom instruction to counseling and building leadership.

The webinar walks educators through the progression from:

• Self-awareness

• To self-regulation

• To self-directed learning

Importantly, it also highlights the positive impact SEL implementation has on educator morale and well-being, reinforcing that when students thrive emotionally, teachers benefit as well. Attendees gain insight from three perspectives--principal, counselor, and classroom teacher--and leave with actionable strategies that can be directly applied in their own classrooms and schools. This recorded session is relevant for K–12 teachers, school leaders, and district administrators.

Across the district, intentional efforts are underway to reduce chronic absenteeism through proactive communication with families, student check-ins, attendance monitoring, and supportive intervention plans. By identifying patterns early and addressing barriers such as transportation, health concerns, or social-emotional challenges, schools are working collaboratively to keep students consistently engaged. Reducing chronic absenteeism is critical because regular attendance directly impacts academic achievement, peer relationships, and long-term success. When students are present, they are more likely to build strong foundational skills, feel connected to their school community, and develop the habits necessary for future educational and career opportunities. Recently, students at Salem Middle School were honored for achieving perfect attendance during the second marking period, highlighting the district’s commitment to celebrating and reinforcing positive attendance habits.