You may already be familiar with New Millennium Secondary School’s (NMSS) new guidance counselor this year – he was here last year working alongside Mrs. Sampson. This year, he’s taking on her role so we know him a little better…well, a lot better because, as he admits, he’s a talker AND a processor so no short answers here (thank you!). Ever the diplomatic counselor however, he sidestepped our great Wendy’s and Chick-fil-A debate…learn more about this fabulous guy who wants the best for you at our small, free, public high school, still enrolling for the 2022-2023 school year!
Oh, and love your schedule? Stop by and let him know, something tells us he’d really appreciate that…
When did you know you wanted to be a counselor?
I was working as an instructional assistant for students with special needs while I was going to school to become a teacher. Every week I would accompany the student I was working with to see his counselor. It was in those sessions that I watched their interactions and realized this was the area of education I felt called to pursue.
What do you LOVE about NMSS? What sets it apart from other schools?
I come from a small school setting myself. I understand the dynamic and the personal touch that comes with the NMSS small school environment. They value academics, but they also value community and relationships. I feel like community is the key to success in life. Building a foundation that involves the inclusion of others is what is happening at NMSS and I just want to be a small part of that every day.
In your opinion, what’s the best part of being a counselor?
I’m a talker. I’m a processor. I’m a problem solver. I love working and talking with students and helping them solve issues- either academic or personal. I find so much satisfaction and joy in helping students overcome odds that they previously thought may not be possible to overcome or withstand.
Favorite NMSS events?
Easy…..Turkey Bowl or Fruit Fest.
How do you engage with social emotional learning in your day?
I’m a firm believer in and huge advocate for social emotional learning and development! I’m constantly reading, talking, and listening to others in order to develop the social emotional aspects and understandings in my own life.
What’s the hardest part of being a counselor?
Schedule. Change. Requests.
Can you share with us a few of your favorite things?
- The Office
- Stranger Things
- New Girl
- Denver Broncos
- Disneyland
- Marvel
- Star Wars
- Coffee
- Pizza
- Dr Pepper
- Hawaiian Shirts
- Elton John
- Stevie Wonder
Any great songs/music to get you out of a funk or that inspire you?
Oldies like Elton John, Stevie Wonder, or The Beatles.
Also….Dr. Dre & Snoop Dogg.
Please tell us about your adorable family…
I’ve been married to my wonderful wife for six years. We have two kids, a boy and a girl, ages 4 and 8 months.
Anything else you’d like to share about yourself?
I love you all so much and I think you’re all simply the best.
One final, very important question for the NMSS community: How do you like your chicken nuggets: Wendy’s or Chick-fil-A?
Wendy’s for nuggets, Chick-fil-A for sandwiches/sauces!
Our counselors are just one part of our terrific team of teachers & admin – come learn more about our school. We’re still enrolling for Fall 2022. Call us at 310-999-6162 and talk to one of our friendly staff, or fill out an application and join our Warrior team!
About NMSS
The New Millennium Secondary School (NMSS) is a charter high school in Gardena, CA committed to preparing students to become life-long learners and dynamic leaders in the competitive 21st century. NMSS was created to address the rising global competitive environment for talent. Our students enjoy a small school education with big school sports and accredited community college classes. Enroll your student today.
