Helping a student navigate California’s A-G requirements, new student enrollments, and helping out the counselors, new counseling assistant Kelly McEttrick has already started to impact the student body. 

   She joined on Dec. 4, and her first two weeks on campus included assisting counselors, setting up new students, and managing students’ college routes.

    “I’m really excited for her to be involved in this school. I can already tell the environment is making her feel so loved, warm, and welcomed,” counselor Karly Wardwell said.

    McEttrick studied Psychology at the University of Albany, earning her Master’s in Social Work from SUNY Geneseo. She has worked in medical offices and as a social worker, giving her a foundation in supporting others.

    “I have always wanted to work with kids ever since I went to college,” McEttrick said.

    Even when she was not working in schools, McEttrick found ways to stay involved. From serving as PTA Elsie Brits Staff Writer president to helping with book fairs and school events, she says she has always been the kind of person who jumps in where kids and families need her.

    After taking time to raise her own children, McEttrick realized how much she loved being a part of a school community. 

   Taking a role within a school allows her to support students while staying aligned with her family’s schedule. 

   “Now that my children are older and don’t need me to be home with them, I knew I wanted to come back and work with kids again,” McEttrick said. 

   McEttrick will be helping counselors assist students with 504 plans, course request forms (CRF), new student enrollments, A-G classes, and college prep. She’s excited to help guide students through important milestones, huge transitions, and everyday moments. 

   “She is a really sweet person and is super helpful, especially when I was trying to get help with my A-G stuff to see if I’m on track,” sophomore Abbi Wasson said. 

   McEttrick is available at the counseling office front desk for support.