School Counselor

Phone: 208-350-4040

Email:

Degrees and Certifications:

Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, Boise State University Masters in Counseling, Boise State University Licenced Professional Counselor Nationally Certified Counselor

Dara Sears

The school counselor can be a great resource to help make connections, get support, and learn a lot about yourself. The counseling office is located in the main office. If you would like to contact us please call 208-350-4040, click on the links above, or email sears.dara@westada.org.

Dara Sears has been the counselor at Pathways since 2014. She loves working with students to enhance their social and emotional learning while providing support to achieve academic success. Ms. Sears also enjoys connecting with families to meet needs and provide resources. Individual counseling, small groups, and classroom lessons are ways she connects with students.

College and Career Counselor

Phone: 208-350-4040

Email:

Degrees and Certifications:

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Williams College Masters in Counseling, Boise State University Licensed Professional Counselor

Kersten Thomas

College and Career Counselors are great resources for exploring your skills and interests and connecting them to your future goals!

After having been a teacher for many years, I received my master’s degree from Boise State University in Counseling and have loved the transition to my role as a school counselor. My goal is to fully support students in their academic, social, and emotional growth and development during their middle school years. Forming strong relationships with students is one of the most gratifying aspects of my job.

Please feel free to reach out to me with any concerns, questions, or comments at thomas.kersten@westada.org.

School Counseling Mission and Vision

Counseling Mission Statement

The Pathways Middle School counseling program will prepare students to meet future challenges through connecting with others and themselves, and building upon their individual successes.

Counseling Vision Statement

Students are empowered to show pride for themselves and their work, demonstrate perseverance through challenging siutations, and create positive relationships to nurture their growth and development. Through support from the school counselor, access to guidance curriculum, and an understanding of college and career opportunties, all students will progress towards college and career readiness and succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.