MADISON — The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction today announced that two school counseling programs have been awarded the highest honor in the state for exemplary school counseling programs.
Earlier this month, in collaboration with the Wisconsin School Counselor Association, the DPI named school counselors Lisa Gretz and Michelle Mokrzycki (Little Chute High School, Little Chute Area School District) and Bobby Phillips (Mound View Elementary School, Elk Mound Area School District) recipients of the inaugural Program of Excellence Award. The award recognizes school counselors that have used data to create a school counseling program that has had a positive impact on the school community. The recipients of the award have shown exemplary dedication, determination, knowledge and systems thinking to ensure every student has access and opportunity.
“Students’ needs extend far beyond what can be measured on a test or reflected in academic performance,” State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly said. “School counselors are vital in supporting our students by nurturing a sense of belonging and ensuring a safe, judgment-free space. I am incredibly proud of the impactful work these counselors are doing, and the positive difference their efforts are making in the lives of students across Wisconsin.”
Schools earning the Wisconsin School Counseling Program of Excellence Award are eligible for the American School Counselor Association’s RAMP (Recognized ASCA Model Program) designation, which is awarded by the American School Counselor Association as the highest national recognition for a school counseling program.
For more information on Wisconsin’s school counseling services, visit the DPI’s website.
For an online version of this news release, visit the DPI’s news release webpage.
