Pierce Joint Unified would like to recognize our counselors and college and career technician, Perla Duarte, Cathy Lopez, Ellen Voorhees, Patty Gonzalez and Jessica Ibarra. These counselors advise students both academically and social-emotionally, and their work did not stop during the pandemic. Of course, how their work was done during the school closure changed drastically. They immediately had to find ways to connect with students who were no longer on campus but still in need of support. They did this through virtual meetings and phone calls. Home visits to support students and families became part of their work routines ensuring the needs of students. It wasn’t unusual for them to be helping set-up wi-fi hotspots, counseling parents on how to support their children with their school work, and solving other barriers that were affecting attendance. Our intervention-prevention counselors continue posting a weekly positive message on Instagram as well as providing content on the district’s website for counseling resources. All of these counselors and the college and career technician have passion for students and work to fulfill their needs to ensure success. Due to the pandemic, their workload has greatly increased, yet they continue to do whatever it takes. Pierce Joint Unified appreciates and values its counseling team.