Position: Fifth and Sixth Grade Counselor
School: Singing River Academy
School District: Pascagoula-Gautier School District
City, State: Gautier, MS
Erica Wilson was nominated by her colleague, Shelby Miller.
During the tenure of Mrs. Wilson's career, she has embodied all of the characteristics of being a LifeChanger. Mrs. Wilson started her career in education as a math teacher who made sure all of her students felt safe while holding high expectations for themselves. Mrs. Wilson was passionate about wanting to help students with different challenges seen within the classroom, her school, and the community, so she became a school counselor.
Mrs. Wilson's compassion for all of her students shines through in the different activities she has created. She has created videos demonstrating how to make various stress-relieving tools like stress balls and calm-down bottles, and she has other stress-relieving techniques that are helpful for students and teachers. Mrs. Wilson also plans her character education classes around topics that are highly suggested by the teachers, ensuring her lessons are inclusive of the teachers' and students' needs. Mrs. Wilson takes pride in her ability to de-escalate situations and speak to students in a relatable way.
Mrs. Wilson's dedication to her counselor role goes beyond the school doors. Mrs. Wilson provides parents with different community resources and tools to aid in their child's success. She has also helped the parents with PTO activities and the Parent Academy. Mrs. Wilson has also coordinated community service projects like Thanksgiving meals being served from local churches and Visions of Sugar Plums at Christmas for the Pascagoula Recreation Center.
"If you think my hands are full, you should see my heart."
This quote exemplifies the meaning of Mrs. Wilson's compassion for students. Her character and work ethic supersede all expectations of a school counselor, and she deserves recognition for her hard work and dedication.