FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
David Gordon, CESA 7, Green Bay
2024 Friend of School Counseling Award
Madison, WI -
David Gordon, Northeast Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship (NEWYA) Coordinator, Green Bay, WI, is being awarded the Wisconsin School Counselor Association (WSCA) 2024 Friend of School Counseling Award. The Friend of School Counseling Award recognizes an educator or community member who, through leadership, acts, or support, has made contributions to the school counseling profession. He will be recognized in November 2023 at the Wisconsin School Counselor Association’s Annual Conference, which takes place in the Wisconsin Dells.
Marci Waldron-Kuhn, CESA 7 Learning Services Specialist, who supports school counselors in the region, nominated Gordon and shares, “David's visionary approach to education is exemplified by his pivotal role in the implementation of school-based coaches within high schools to support specifically youth apprenticeships. Recognizing the multifaceted responsibilities of school counselors, he championed a collaborative approach that pairs school-based coaches with counselors, resulting in comprehensive support for students. This holistic model empowers students to explore their passions, strengths, and interests through participation in youth apprenticeship programs. By aligning the efforts of school-based coaches and counselors, David has facilitated a dynamic partnership that optimizes student support and well-being. David's collaborative efforts with Chambers of Commerce and Workforce Development Boards to connect businesses with opportunities to host youth apprenticeship students showcase his commitment to building strong ties between education and the local workforce. His leadership has transformed the support system for students, school counselors, businesses, and communities alike. During the 2022-23 academic year, an astounding 1034 students were placed in youth apprenticeships through NEWYA. This exceptional growth accounts for one-third of the overall increase in youth apprenticeship placements statewide in Wisconsin. David's visionary leadership and strategic direction have been pivotal in driving this phenomenal achievement. Through the support of school counselors, NEWYA, under David's leadership, has changed the trajectory for students, businesses, and communities.”
“Wisconsin school counselors work with all students to increase student success and access to education by supporting the academic, social/emotional, and career/post-secondary planning needs of students,” said Stacy Eslick, WSCA Executive Director. “A tenant of a data-driven comprehensive school counseling program is working in collaboration with community partners to meet the diverse needs of students. Gordon’s partnership and collaboration with local school counselors shows the positive student impact of agencies working together.”
Every year, WSCA recognizes a friend of school counseling who has demonstrated a profound impact on the ability of school counselors to implement a highly effective school counseling program using an equity lens. Nominations for this award are submitted to the WSCA Professional Recognition team and reviewed by a committee of active and retired school counselors. The organization selects one individual to receive this award.
About the Wisconsin School Counselor Association
School Counselors are essential to the lifelong learning and success of all students. Our vision is for Wisconsin to be the model for excellence in equitable school counseling practice, exemplified by the advocacy, leadership, and expertise of the members of the WSCA. Focused on providing quality professional development opportunities, supporting comprehensive school counseling programs, and giving one voice to professional school counselors, WSCA is dedicated to empowering school counselors throughout the state. For additional information about WSCA, visit www.wscaweb.org.