Students who previously had either Kathryn Kressel or Nicole Levitt as their counselor, now have Danielle McGovern or Michelle Lard. McGovern oversees students last names Bro-Fa, and Lard oversees students last names Sm-Z. 

“Both of the counselors are great; they jumped right in from the start. They constantly ask questions to make sure they get everything right,” said fellow counselor Bryan Lynch.  “I have nothing but  good things to say about them.” 

Lard taught special education for 21 years within VBCPS. Her passion has been being able to work with kids one on one.\

“The transition has been overwhelming, however it is a good overwhelming.” said Lard. “It’s almost like I am switching dance partners. But at the end of the day I can still say I am in love with my job; I love what I do.”

The friendly culture is one of her favorite things here. 

“The diversity is incredible; this is a place where everybody is somebody, and everybody has a uniqueness about themselves,” said Lard. “The children are intelligent, they’re gifted, they’re talented. Everybody is just so warm and carefree and I feel safe.”

McGovern has enjoyed meeting people around school.

 “Everybody is just so nice here!” said McGovern “I feel supported, which, unfortunately, isn’t something I have had at my previous job sites.”

Transitioning from being an elementary school counselor, McGovern has noticed the differing challenges high school counseling brings.

“I was in elementary for the past two years. I didn’t just have one school; I had three different schools. Salem has brought me the opportunity to be at one school with one group of kiddos.”” said McGovern. “I felt more like a teacher at the elementary level, while I feel more like an administrator here. The reason it’s been overwhelming has just been navigating how they are different; there are new expectations.”

McGovern is thrilled to get to work with her students, and she appreciates those who have reached out so far.

“I am really excited to get to work with my seniors on starting to apply to colleges and post graduation plans. That’s something that has always been a big deal to me, so I am excited to get to experience that with my seniors this year,” said McGovern. 

Counselor Alisha Zimba  has been at Salem for 13 years and is thrilled to have McGovern and Lard join the team.

“They bring a fresh perspective and excitement for the field. They both already have a passion for the kids, which is what it’s all about. I think we hit the jackpot with those two.” said Zimba.

If you need to talk to McGovern or Lard, see them in the guidance office or contact them at [email protected] or [email protected].