February 3-7 is National School Counseling Week, highlighting the tremendous impact school counselors have in helping students achieve academic success and planning for a career.

School counselors work with students in many ways, such as classroom lessons, group sessions, and individual counseling. 

Below is an example of one of our exemplary school counselors. She was chosen as a finalist for the 2024 Outstanding School-Based Professional Employee Award. The excerpts are from her nomination packets. 

Allison Warren, school counselor at Centre Ridge Elementary School

Allison was nominated while she was a counselor at Centreville High School. She has since moved to Centre Ridge Elementary School. The information below is based on her time at Centreville. 

Allison is known for her dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to students, families, and teachers. As a school counselor with two decades of experience, she consistently exceeds expectations in supporting students’ academic, career, and personal development. 

One of Allison’s standout qualities is her deep empathy and approachability. She connects with individuals on a personal level and ensures that her guidance and support are always grounded in genuine care and understanding. With a caseload of more than 250 students and as an advisor to multiple organizations, it is noteworthy that students know Mrs. Warren is available to them and makes them feel like they have someone in their corner.    

Allison’s office is a safe harbor for students who need a trusted listener and supportive advocate,” said colleague Kara Stamper, who nominated Allison. “She has created a critical haven for students to seek guidance, someone to mediate conflict, help them process problems, and come up with actionable goals and plans. I am in awe of how hard she works and how much she does to help every student at Centreville feel like a part of the community.”

Allison has made an “immeasurable impact” on her students and colleagues, said Chad Lehman, former principal of Centreville High School who now serves as an executive principal for Region 5. 

“She can often be seen meeting with individual students in her office, talking with administrators and other support staff, compiling data for the school improvement plan, or speaking in front of a packed auditorium of parents sharing valuable information,” he continued. “What sets Allison apart is her ability to balance the demands of her position and the extra responsibilities she assumes with the ability to remain personally connected to her students and the staff she supports.”