Dorchester District Two names 2024 District Counselor of the Year

Dorchester School District Two has named Shannon Scott, a counselor at RISE Academy, as the 2024 District Counselor of the Year. Scott was recognized at the February 26, 2024 meeting of the Board of Trustees.

Ms. Shannon Scott is a proud graduate of Summerville High School and served as a counselor at Oakbrook Middle School and Ashley Ridge High School before moving to RISE Academy this school year.

Ms. Scott strives each day to passionately advocate on behalf of her students. She measures her accomplishments by the growth and successes of her students. She finds great joy in “watching students take the first step towards goals that will put them on the path to a better life. This includes seeing students graduate who struggled academically or with other barriers, experiencing the excitement of students being accepted to college knowing they are the first generation of their family to go, and working with students who open up about deeper issues that have contributed to their behaviors and trusting me enough to try professional counseling.”

She believes a school counseling program “should build a student academically, personally, socially, and to be a contributing member of society. They should guide students to work towards a high school diploma (or credential), college, and/or a career, eliminate barriers, and ensure that students understand that all of these things continue into adulthood and can be reflective of the type of life they may lead.”

Principal Brion Packett explains, “Ms. Scott remains resolute in her belief that every student possesses the capability to succeed and achieve their goals. This unwavering optimism has a profound impact on the school community, instilling a sense of confidence and motivation among both students and staff.” As a leader, “she has demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and a keen ability to turn obstacles into opportunities for growth. Her strategic vision for the school's improvement has not only enhanced the learning environment but has also garnered appreciation from peers and superiors alike.”

Fourteen counselors were nominated for this honor by their schools, and were interviewed by a selection committee to decide the 2024 Dorchester School District Two Counselor of the Year.