11.14.25 - Community Newsletter
Students benefit from having school counselors in their corner
“To improve is to change.” -- Winston Churchill
Few positions in education have evolved more than the school counselor. Our team at the Brunswick School Department (BSD) fills countless roles, with an unwavering commitment to enhancing the school experience for our students.
In my day, guidance counselors, as they were then called, primarily interacted with students to help select classes or apply for college. While today’s school counselors still offer support as students determine their next steps, the role has undergone significant expansion.
In many ways, our counselors, like teachers and other staff, serve as the eyes and ears of the school. We know that students who lack basic needs tend to struggle in the classroom, and our counselors are often the first to notice a sixth grader without a warm coat or hear a sophomore discuss an issue at home. The Brunswick School Department manages many programs to support students, and our counselors regularly utilize these, whether a student faces transportation challenges, experiences food insecurity, or needs school supplies or personal hygiene products.
When counselors occasionally reach out to our community partners for assistance, Alanna Roy, a school counselor at Brunswick Junior High, says that people are quick to respond. “With as much need as there is, we have community members who step up and are ready to meet the need 10-fold. The response is incredible.”
Another large component of the educational journey focuses on students’ emotional and social growth. For example, while many of our youngest learners eagerly march into kindergarten ready to learn, others may hesitate. Abby Turner, school counselor at Kate Furbish Elementary School, can be found greeting students, checking in with teachers, and even attending a class. Abby knows the early days of education are especially important for empowering students and helping them establish good learning habits that will carry them forward. She and other BSD counselors step in when students need extra support, such as a special learning plan, help resolving a conflict, or someone to talk to after a tough morning on the bus.
There is no typical day for a school counselor, but their impact is immeasurable. As key members of our team, they regularly meet with students, parents, teachers, administrators, and other staff on topics ranging from behavioral issues to school recognition programs.
There are many pieces to their work, but as Abby says, ‘it feels really good when you can make a difference.”
And they certainly do make a difference. Every day.
Finally, as Thanksgiving approaches, I’d like to express my gratitude for the staff, families, and community partners who play a role in the education of our students. Whether you teach math, coach basketball, volunteer in the classroom, serve meals, tune up our boilers, or are among those in our community who provide financial support or in-kind donations to help support our students, thank you! I’m thankful for each and every one of you.
Meghan Rose
First Year 3rd Grade Teacher
HBS
Meghan just moved out of her parent's house earlier this year. Her family includes her parents, a younger brother and their dog, Chelsey. Meghan grew up in Round Pond and graduated from UMF with a B.S. In Elementary Education.
What makes you proud to work in Brunswick? #BSDProud
I’m proud to be part of such a welcoming, supportive school community!
What do you like to do outside of work for fun?
This summer I’ve spent many days on the beach with a book! I played basketball for fun through college and have just recently started playing pickle ball.
Favorite line from a movie?
"Help me, Obi-Wan Kenobi. You're my only hope" - Star Wars: A New Hope
If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?
Taylor Swift
What is something you learned in the last week?
I just tried out a new recipe for roasted potatoes that was delicious!
Open Employment Positions:
- Boys JV Hockey Coach - Brunswick High School
- Long Term Sub Admin Assistant Office - Brunswick Junior High School
- Girls Basketball Varsity Assistant Coach - Brunswick High School
- Substitute Nurses, Teachers, Ed Techs, Tutors
- Resource Educational Technician - Kate Furbish School
- School Bus Drivers!!
- Apprentice/Ed Tech I & Bus Aides
- Substitute Bus Drivers, Van Drivers, & Custodians
- ...And MORE!
We're hiring for multiple positions. Visit our website to view
all current employment opportunities!
You can view previous newsletters on our website!
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