For the dedicated school counselors of Sampson County Schools, the past two years have been a journey of growth, teamwork, and unwavering commitment to the students they serve. This spring, their hard work paid off: every counselor in the district completed the Districtwide American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model Training, marking a key milestone in ensuring each and every student is supported by a comprehensive school counseling program.
Each month, counselors gathered - sometimes after long school days - to participate in hands-on workshops, share ideas, and learn from ASCA-Certified Trainers. The training was more than just professional development; it was a chance for counselors to reflect on their roles, support one another, and find new ways to help students thrive.
The program’s structure - six full-day workshops over two years, plus ongoing assignments and feedback - meant counselors were constantly learning and growing. They worked together to build counseling programs tailored to the individual needs of Sampson County’s students, ensuring that every child, no matter their background or challenges, could access the support they needed to succeed.
At the heart of this training was the ASCA National Model, a framework that helps counselors define their mission, manage resources, deliver direct services to students, and assess the impact of their work. This approach isn’t just about checking boxes; it’s about making a real difference in students’ lives.
Counselors learned how to use data to identify student needs, set meaningful goals, and measure the results of their efforts. Whether it’s helping a student navigate a tough time, plan for college, or build social skills, Sampson County’s counselors are now even better equipped to provide guidance and support that changes lives.
With every school in the district now following the ASCA National Model, students can expect consistent, high-quality support, no matter which school they attend. The district is already seeing benefits: improved student achievement, better attendance, and a stronger sense of community and belonging.
This milestone is just the beginning. With their new certification, Sampson County’s counselors are ready to pursue even greater recognition through the Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) and, more importantly, to keep finding new ways to help students succeed.
SCS Student Support director, Jennifer Daughtry, shared, “We are incredibly proud of our counselors. Their dedication and passion are making a real difference for our students, families, and schools. This certification is a testament to their commitment to excellence.”
Congratulations to the Sampson County Schools counselors for their hard work, determination, and the positive impact they make every day. Their achievement sets a new standard for student support in our community and promises a brighter future for every child they serve.
SCS ASCA Certified School Counselors:
Donna St. Pierre, Clement Elementary
April Williams, Hargrove Elementary
Elizabeth Price, Hobbton Elementary
Christina Corbett, Hobbton Middle
Stephanie Goethie, Hobbton High
Sydney Bowen, Lakewood High
Christan Jackson, Midway Elementary
Misty McLamb, Midway Middle
Larinda Haight and Jessica Tyndall, Midway High
Shannon Williams, Plain View Elementary
Rebekah Tarplee, Roseboro Elementary
Jennyfer Escalera, Roseboro-Salemburg Middle
Sarah Gautier, Salemburg Elementary
Taylor DeLeone, Sampson Early College High School
Chandra Hardison, Union Elementary
Lora McLamb, Union Intermediate
Kristine Travers, Union Middle
Raven Chavez, Union High