Hello, I am Kailyn Getchell a recent graduate from Bridgewater State University with my Masters of Education in School Counseling 5-12. I currently am a long term substitute school counselor at Whitman-Hanson Regional High School. This portfolio has some of the best work I have completed at Bridgewater State University demonstrating my competency as a professional school guidance counselor. My capstone experience at Bridgewater State University has enabled me to display all of my accomplishments and growth to you, please see the attached artifacts under CACREP (counselor for accreditation of counseling and related educational programs) competencies. 

I have chosen to work with and for children for many reasons. Ever since I was in high school, I loved teaching younger students and being a positive role model. Since my first experience working with youth at the age of 14, I wanted to work in a school system professionally. Since then I have grown a strong passion to help students in the high school level grow into young adults who can go out into the community and succeed. As a professional school counselor, I have the opportunity to work with a wide range of students which enables me to reach out to an entire community. 

At Bridgewater State University I have learned many new skills and concepts to become the best counselor I can be. Learning from the CACREP education program and the ASCA national model (American School Counselors Association) I have been able to put my skills to use at my position as a school counselor. I chose this program to challenge myself and to graduate from a CACREP accredited program. Bridgewater State University is the only school counseling CAPREP program in Massachusetts.  

During my time at Whitman-Hanson I have faced many new challenges and learned many new skills. I currently have a case load of approximately 300 students in grades 9-12. I facilitate an advisory group, and classroom lessons. I assist students with emotional, social, and academic issues, while also helping them create and reach new goals.  

I believe children are the future. They need positive role models and someone they can trust. I want to make a difference, help students find their path and set goals for themselves. With a comprehensive developmental program counselors can help educate their students to grow personally and educationally. I hope to advocate for students so they can succeed and become young adults locally and globally. As a professional school counselor my goal is to create a safe and comfortable environment where students can learn to the best of their ability achieving mental, physical, and educational success, as well as have open communication.