School counselor Charnita Clements is recognized by the Virginia Department of Education

 

Charnita Clements, school counselor at Barron Fundamental Elementary School, was recently recognized as a Difference Maker by the Virginia Department of Education’s Office of Student Services.

 

The Difference Maker recognition highlights school counselors who are making a difference through comprehensive school counseling programs and best practices in their schools. Each school division in the state submits nominations. One school counselor at each level – elementary, middle, and high – was selected for each region. Clements was nominated by the director of student development and counseling for Hampton City Schools, Carla Mahn. Clements was selected for Region 2 which consists of Accomack County, Chesapeake, Franklin, Hampton, Isle of Wight, Williamsburg-James City County, Newport News, Norfolk, Northampton, Poquoson, Portsmouth, Southampton County, Suffolk, Virginia Beach, and York County.

 

Mahn shares that Clements is an excellent school counselor and her program is one that collaborates with her administration and the Barron PTA. She incorporates social-emotional learning (SEL), academic, and college and career awareness for the students and also supports the mental health and wellness of the parents, faculty, and staff of Barron Elementary School.

 

“Everything that Mrs. Clements is doing for her building, students, and staff is what creates the successful and positive school climate for her ‘village’ and helps lessen student and parent anxiety about school and the pandemic,” says Mahn. “Her program promotes skills that will undoubtedly contribute to successful learning outcomes as well as student SEL outcomes. It deserves to be recognized and so does she.”

 

Clements says, “I am truly honored and thankful to represent Hampton City Schools and our amazing Barron Village.”