School counselors receive surprise awards

Three school counselors were recently surprised with the San Diego County Counselor of the Year Award, presented by the San Diego County Office of Education.

The honorees are: Heidi Saupe from Monte Vista Elementary in Vista Unified School District, Karena Haro-Esparza from Feaster Charter School in the Chula Vista Union School District, and Chris Toomey from San Pasqual Academy in Escondido. North Island Credit Union sponsors the awards, which come with a $500 check.

“As we continue to focus on mental health, we are reminded once again of the vital role school counselors play in ensuring the well-being of our students,” said San Diego County Superintendent of Schools Paul Gothold in a statement. “I congratulate this year’s honorees, who exemplify the dedication and professionalism of all the counselors supporting students, schools, and families throughout San Diego County.”

Four special awards in school counseling leadership were also announced: Associate Superintendent Greg Mizel, Student Support Services, Poway Unified School District, received the Administrator of the Year. Retired professor Lonnie Rowell, who directed the counseling program and the school counseling emphasis at the University of San Diego, received the Lifetime Achievement award. Lezya Weglarz, a district counselor on special assignment for San Marcos Unified School District, received the School Counselor Advocate of the Year award.

The San Marcos Promise, which supports and helps guide students after they graduate from high school, received the Community Based Organization of the Year award.

“North Island Credit Union is honored to partner with the San Diego County Office of Education in recognizing elementary, middle, and high school counselors for the essential role they play in our students’ health, well-being, and success,” said North Island Credit Union President/CEO Steve O’Connell in a statement. “We congratulate the 2023 Counselor of the Year honorees for their hard work and dedication to their students and all of their contributions to their school communities.”

All recipients will be recognized at an Honoring Excellence in School Counseling Leadership event on May 12.

LAURA GROCH U-T