Elementary School Counseling

Guidance Department Announcements

• Meet the New Elementary Guidance Counselor for Upper Nyack and Valley Cottage Elementary Schools

  It is with pride and honor that I introduce myself, Jon-Christopher Hogg, as one of the new elementary school counselors. I will be working at both Upper Nyack Elementary and Valley Cottage Elementary.  I am thrilled to be a part of such an amazing group of administrators, teachers, staff, and most of all, families. This is going to be a fun year filled with learning, growing, and lots of new adventures. I cannot wait to get to know you, your family, and most importantly your child!

   I have been working as a school counselor in the South Bronx for the past six years. I'm extremely excited to continue my career here at Nyack. I grew up in Rockland County where I graduated from Spring Valley High School. I earned my B.A from Temple University and obtained my M.S in school counseling from Mercy College. I currently live in Rockland County with my wife and two wonderful children. 

   At the moment, we are currently fine tuning our counseling program. My mission as a counselor is to meet the academic, personal, social emotional, and career goals of every student through classroom guidance lessons, small group counseling, and school wide initiatives. On an individual basis, to advocate for students' needs, interests and issues related to the stages of student development. Additionally to support families, and teachers to ensure the students have everything they need to be successful.

   Once again, I am extremely excited to start this new journey and to meet all of you. I hope you enjoy the rest of your summer!!

   Please feel free to reach out to me in September, I can be reached at 845 353- 7279, or at jhogg@nyackschools.org.

  Sincerely,

   Mr. Jon- Christopher Hogg

  Guidance & K-12 School Counseling

• Meet the New Elementary Guidance Counselor for Liberty and Upper Nyack Elementary Schools

  I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself! My name is Marina Gomez and I am the new K-5 School Counselor at Liberty and Upper Nyack Elementary School. I am very excited to be part of the Liberty and Upper Nyack Elementary family and, I feel very lucky to be part of it!

   My passion for school counseling began during my time as a Child Protective Specialist working for the Administration For Children Services in New York City. Working for the past eight years as a Child Protective Specialist, I came across families of all different background and issues. I attended Lehman College and earned my Masters of Education in School Counseling with a bilingual (Spanish) certification. Although I have 3 years in school counseling experience, I have 10+ years experience in working with students and providing support and advocacy for families. What I love most about the elementary level is the genuine curiosity students have in their learning and the world around them.

   As a School Counselor, my primary responsibility is to promote the academic, career, and social/emotional development of all students. It is never too early for children to be exposed to college and career opportunities. I look forward to offering my support to all students, staff, families, and community.  I will be meeting with students individually, in small groups, conducting classroom counseling lessons including the Second Step curriculum, meeting with parents, collaborating with teachers and staff, and consulting with community organizations to benefit and meet the needs of all the students. I am here to advocate and support all students and their families. If you ever have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me anytime.

   I am so excited to work with your children and get to know you throughout the school year!

   Please feel free to reach out to me in September, I can be reached at 845 353 - 7259, or at mgomez@nyackschools.org.

    Sincerely,

   

  Marina Gomez

  Guidance & K-12 School Counseling