In celebration of National School Counseling Week, CUSD Insider is showcasing profiles of the fantastic counselors we have throughout the District.
Today we are highlighting Kim Dittrich, Carl Hankey TK-8 counselor.
Q: How long have you worked in CUSD?
A: This is my second year.
Q: Describe your role in supporting student success at your school or in your department.
A: I have the unique experience of being the school counselor at at TK-8. I am able to build strong relationships and truly get to know the students and grow with them. I run several clubs, small groups, counseling through the YMCA, and lunch bunch opportunities ensuring all students have access to the supports they need.
Q: How long have you worked professionally in school counseling?
A: I have been a school counselor for five years. Prior to CUSD, I was a school counselor at Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana.
Q: What college degrees and professional certifications do you hold?
A:I have a bachelor’s degree in human services with an emphasis on mental health, a master’s in school counseling and 12 masters in education units in Diversity, Equity and Social Justice in Education.
Q: What do you find most rewarding about counseling work?
A: The most rewarding part is creating relationships and supporting my students.
Q: Is there a program that CUSD utilizes that is especially beneficial to student support?
A: I am grateful that CUSD supports the school counseling program in general. I know that the services we are able to provide are beneficial in helping students to be ready for life outside of the school building.
Q: How do counselors in CUSD help support one another?
A: We have so many opportunities to support and collaborate with one another even if we don’t work together in the same building. I always know that if I have a question there will be someone that has the answer.
Q: What is the one thing you would want families to know about your role in student success that they might not be aware of?
A: I would want families to know that I am another supportive adult on campus that has their students’ best interests in mind. Even if your student does not need counseling, I am here to support them. I make myself visible and accessible to my students so they know they can count on me to get them through there school day on the best days and the not so good days too!