Amanda McDonald receives an award. Photo courtesy of Dallas ISD.

Counselors at a few local Dallas ISD schools were recognized last week.

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DISD held the celebration May 19 at South Oak Cliff High School.

Amanda McDonald from Alex Sanger Preparatory School was named the Choice/Magnet Counselor of the Year.

Alex W. Spence’s Yolanda Carter was a finalist for the award among secondary schools.

Rosa Puente from Bryan Adams High School Leadership Academy was named the high school Rookie of the Year. And Marsana Jackson from Woodrow Wilson High School was a finalist for the award.

See the full list of winners here.

Rosa Puente receives an award. Photo courtesy of Dallas ISD.

Dallas ISD’s Counseling Services works to “sustain an effective counseling and guidance program that encourages social and academic growth while challenging students to become independent thinkers and responsible citizens.”

Counselors work in four main areas. They are involved with the guidance curriculum, teaching students lessons such as self-confidence, decision-making, communication skills and cross-cultural effectiveness. They also assist with individual academic planning, including academic counseling, four-year plans, AP placement and more. Counselors help with immediate personal concerns, crises or issues that could hinder academic success. And they coordinate programs to support students and their families, such as parent education workshops and staff development for educators.