We’re ending Education Support Professionals Week in #GFNation on a high note with today’s honoree, Mrs. Theresa Chandler, Secretary in the School Counseling Office at the High School! Mrs. Chandler is the first point of contact for students, teachers, and parents regarding everything from report cards, records and transcripts, to honor roll certificates, working cards, scholarships, and AP exams. She’s worked for Glens Falls City Schools for 19 years – 16 of which she has served as the School Counseling Office Secretary.
“I look forward to coming to work and seeing ‘my kids’ everyday, and would not want to be anywhere else,” Theresa says. “I strive to make the School Counseling Office a warm, welcoming atmosphere, where students feel comfortable asking any question – no matter what it is,”
School Counselor Brian Bombard sees that warm atmosphere in action every day. “Theresa is very friendly and welcoming to students who visit the school counseling office,” he says. “She has a great work ethic and often juggles many tasks at once. The school counselors appreciate all the assistance she provides GFHS throughout the year.”
Those tasks have ranged from creating a beautiful back-to-school display in the front foyer to filling in as district registrar during busy weeks in August … all while helping the High School’s 600+ students with their schedules in the beginning of the year. Over the years, she has been instrumental in creating the printed course guide, and recently digitizing the entire catalog. “Being adaptable to new and emerging digital platforms and keeping up with new programs and software is vital in today’s learning environment,” Mrs. Chandler says. “ I have worked hard to keep up with all the new technologies introduced to us!”
“Every day is different,” she says. “The most rewarding part of my position is watching how students grow and develop throughout their 4 years here at GFHS, into wonderful young adults moving out into the world. Being part of such a dedicated team of teachers, school counselors, and support staff who always go above and beyond for our kids is an amazing experience.”
Principal Kevin Warren notes Mrs. Chandler’s integral part in the High School team. “Behind every successful high school, there’s a guidance secretary like no other. With her kindness, Theresa guides students on their journey towards success, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.”
A native of the area, Theresa has lived in Glens Falls for more than 30 years, priding herself as being a part of this amazing Glens Falls community. She has two adult sons who graduated from Glens Falls High School. In her off time, she loves painting, and exploring the Adirondacks by hiking, camping and kayaking.