Dodge City counselor named finalist for Kansas School Counselor of the Year

Dodge City, KS(westernkansasnews.com) USD 443 counselor Melanie Scott has been named as one of three finalist for the Kansas School Counselor of the Year award.

Her nomination was announced through a news from USD 443. As a finalist in the Counselor of the Year Program, Scott was able to present information about some of the key work she has been doing for USD 443 at the Kansas School Counselor Association luncheon Nov. 9.

“I am thankful for the opportunity to represent USD 443 and honored to be recognized as one of three finalists for Kansas School Counselor of the Year,” Scott said.  “It was a win-win either way to celebrate and then get to present with a few of my peers.”

Dr. Glenn Fortmayer, Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education, said Scott’s recognition as one of the top counselors in the state is of no surprise to district administrators and staff.

“Her work in suicide prevention and postvention, Trauma Sensitive Schools, Mindfulness, and Mental Health First Aid, is stepping up student care procedures profoundly.  Her ability to do these trainings and the procedure work amidst her counseling, career planning, scheduling, college preparatory work for students and other duties, demonstrates a remarkable level of dedication to our students and staff,” he said.  “We are thrilled she has been recognized by the state and her colleagues.”

Scott said one in five students has or will have a mental health issue and that the district can provide resources and trainings to help teachers and parents build healthy relationships with students in order for adults to recognize the signs, symptoms of a mental health issue that might be occurring, learn how to helps students tap into self-help and support strategies, as well as know when to refer students to a professional resource.