Introduction

I am Pat Lehmann, one of your two new Keystone counseling consultants. Bev Berns and I are taking the reins from Amy Holst who has done an amazing job supporting Keystone school counselors. We are grateful for her help as we make this transition.

As a secondary administrator, I have worked extensively with student services in the academic, behavioral, social and emotional realms. I have a strong understanding of the school counselor role and also understand those roles can vary from district to district. I am a trainer for the Youth Mental Health First Aid certification program and a member of Keystone's mental health team.

My passion is ensuring that as educators we meet all students and their needs to the best of our abilities. I view the adults in a child's life as a critical factor in a child's successful education and preparation for adult life.

Going forward, my formal focus will be to support schools in the ASCA National Model: A Framework for School Counseling Programs and what that can look like and how it can serve students in Iowa schools.

Informally, I want to provide support where you need it in your district's counseling program and provide resources and tools to help you meet student needs. I look forward to this partnership. Together, we--communities, parents, schools, and AEAs--can provide a strong support system to ensure student success.