HUDSON, N.H. -- The Hudson School District continues to spotlight its wonderful faculty members, as they feature sixth grade school counselor, Ms. Sawyer, from Hudson Memorial School.
Q: How long have you been at HMS and how long have you been a counselor overall?
A: I have worked at HMS since Dec. 2006 (little over 17 years). For the first 14 years, I worked in a behavior management program supporting at-risk students with academic and behavioral needs, served as the In-School Suspension teacher supporting students with processing their behaviors and accessing their education while on suspension, and I was a Behavior Program Case Manager supporting students in a Teir 3 program that focused on supporting students with Emotional disabilities.
I have been a School Counselor in the counseling department at HMS for the past 3 years and have worked with all 3 grade levels.
Q: What drove you to become a counselor?
A: I knew at a young age that I wanted to work in a profession where I could help children navigate growing, learning, and discovering the person they want to become in life. I remember watching my elementary teachers and counselors work with students and could see the positive impact their support had on children. I know I wanted to help support and positively impact young lives as well.
Q: How has your role changed over time?
A: Although my title has changed a few times over the years, my role of supporting children in all aspects of their school life has remained the same. My role and goal is to provide a safe environment for students to learn and grow. I want students to feel comfortable and supported throughout their school day and know that I am here to help in any way they need.
Q: What do you find to be the most rewarding thing about your role?
A: I think for me, the most rewarding thing about my role is making connections with students and seeing them grow and thrive in their own way. Having students simply saying “hi” or waving to me in the halls shows me that I am making a connection, and they feel comfortable.
Q: What are some of your favorite things to do away from school?
A: When I am not at school, I love spending time with my family. My son and I have a love for fishing and spend many hours fishing lakes, ponds, and streams and catching anything that will bite the hook. I have really enjoyed teaching my daughter how to drive. As a whole family we are raising our baby chickens and starting our seed to hopefully have a successful vegetable garden this summer.
Q: What do you think makes HMS a unique place to work?
A: HMS is a great place to work. It is a welcoming community of teachers and staff with helpful supports in place when needed. Our teachers are coordinated in teams which makes for a collaborative working environment across all subjects.