Welcome to the Guidance & Counseling Department Homepage
Your Future. Your Plan. Our Commitment to Your Journey.
Our department is dedicated to implementing a comprehensive, developmental K–12 school counseling program that recognizes and respects the unique qualities of each student. Our mission is to promote academic achievement, social and emotional growth, and career readiness through prevention, intervention, enrichment and advocacy.
We are committed to fostering student success by building a system of support that engages educators, families, and community partners. Together, we empower students to make informed decisions, overcome challenges, and prepare for future opportunities.
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Graduates of our district embody the following qualities:
- Academically Prepared – Equipped with the knowledge and skills for college, career, and lifelong learning.
- Socially and Emotionally Competent – Demonstrating empathy, resilience, and responsible decision-making.
- Critical Thinkers – Able to analyze, evaluate, and create solutions to complex problems.
- Collaborative Communicators – Engaging effectively and respectfully with diverse perspectives.
- Civic and Global Citizens – Ready to lead, contribute, and make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
School Counseling Department Directory
2025-2026 District guidance & counseling services directory.
Transcript Request Form / Education Verification
Please note: We do not provide copies of High School Diplomas. They are given at the time of graduation and cannot be duplicated.
Graduation Requirements & Post Secondary Planning
Employment & Community Service Opportunities
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504 Accommodations and Plans
504 accommodations refers to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a federal civil rights law in the United States that is designed to protect individuals with disabilities from discrimination.
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Contact Us
District Team
| Tamisha McKoy | Director of Guidance & Counseling K-12 | tmckoy@paterson.k12.nj.us | |
|
Shanta Jones |
Coordinator of Guidance and Student Support Service | 973-321-0740 | sjones@paterson.k12.nj.us |
| Laurel Olson | Supervisor of Student Support Services | 973-321-0694 | lolson@paterson.k12.nj.us |
|
Sarah Miller |
Data Coordinator | 973-321-0646 | millers@paterson.k12.nj.us |
School-based Supervisors
|
Estefania Valera |
Elementary Supervisor of Guidance & Student Support Services Elementary Schools |
973-321-2347 |
evalera@paterson.k12.nj.us |
|
Michelle Howe |
High School Supervisor of Guidance John F. Kennedy High School Alonzo “Tambua” Moody Academy |
Ext. 50162 | mhowe@paterson.k12.nj.us |
|
Caitlin McGee |
High School Supervisor of Guidance Eastside High School Educational Complex |
Ext. 51174 | cmcgee@paterson.k12.nj.us |
|
Melissa Wright |
High School Supervisor of Guidance International High School Paterson P-TECH Paterson STEAM High School Rosa L. Parks School of Fine & Performing Arts |
|
wrightm@paterson.k12.nj.us |