Aunyã McElroy
Professional School Counselor
Hazelwood School District
St. Louis
McCluer North High School
SIUE, BS, Psychology
University of Missouri-St. Louis, Masters in School Counseling (K-12)
National Board for Certified Counselors
American School Counselor Association
St. Louis Suburban School Counselor Association
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
SistaKeeper Empowerment Center
What does a typical day look like for you as a school counselor?
As a school counselor, every day is a new adventure. In the mornings, I greet the students as they enter the school or in passing as they head to class. During the lunch periods, I sit with different groups of students and engage in meaningful conversations. I facilitate age appropriate guidance lessons and facilitate IEP or CARE Team meetings. There are times that I meet with students individually to help students gain an increased awareness of self-confidence, realization of self-discipline, improved relationships with others, and character development. My primary role is to respond to the needs of the students, parents, and the community on a daily basis.
What drew you to a career in school counseling and education?
Even as an elementary student, I volunteered to be in a mentorship-type role. I knew I wanted to help others, specifically students. I wanted to be a person students felt comfortable talking to about their feelings without any judgement. A student needs to see someone who is authentic, makes them feel they matter and are heard. Ultimately, a career field in school counseling and education would give me more time to have the impact of building solid relationships with students, which is why I am a school counselor today!
What is your philosophy in working with children?
My personal philosophy of working with students is focused on advocating for each individual student and supporting them through a positive growth process using unconditional positive regard. I believe in creating safe spaces for students to grow and heal. My main focus is on building authentic relationships. Although students may have similar concerns, their personal experiences and trauma varies. Overall I believe everyone has potential to do what it takes to become someone important in society. My sole reason for choosing this career is to help students improve their narrative and help bring out their potential to be their best selves in school and in society. By doing this, it encourages them to positively view themselves as having hope, direction, and purpose.
Describe an experience or student success story that makes you especially proud.
During my time at Hazelwood East High School, one of my students did not want to come to school and was on the verge of dropping out without a plan. I met with the student on a consistent basis to build a relationship and to develop interventions that would encourage them to come to school each day. The student ultimately decided to drop out and I told the student to make sure they kept me updated with their life plans. I received an email from the student over that summer stating that they were pursuing their GED and was now looking into a technical career. I am a firm believer that college is not the only way to a successful future. I am extremely proud of the student and glad they were able to overcome their fears and stay focused.
