Email: jaclyn.smith@lcps.org 

Location: School Counseling Office

• M.Ed. School Counseling, University of Virginia
• M.Ed. Higher Education Administration, University of Florida
• B.A. Sociology & Religious Studies, University of Virginia

What do you love about Indy?

I love the sense of community we have here at Indy.  The kindness our students show to others and the energy and school spirit they pour into supporting our school is amazing.  Our teachers, counselors, and administrators truly care for students and invest in making our school a safe, affirming, and inclusive place.   

Who or what are your sources of strength?

My family and two Golden Retrievers, Harper and Murphy.

What do you do to relax and recharge?

I love to bake and cook, enjoy a good Hallmark movie that's totally unrealistic but always has a happy ending, and cudding with my pups.  If I can escape to the beach, it's good for my soul. 

What advice do you have for students?

I encourage students to pause, breathe, and allow themselves to experience all the opportunities - big and small - that are presented to them.  Don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone.  Don't worry if you make mistakes along the way - we're human and it's part of the journey.  While I know many of our students feel the pressure to achieve and set their expectations high, don't forget to spend time doing things that bring you joy, make you laugh, and that help you be well.  

Email: ashley.warfield@lcps.org

Location: School Counseling Office

• M.Ed. School Counseling, Capella University
• B.A. Psychology, Shepherd University

What do you love about Indy?

Our school spirit and seeing students get involved

Who or what are your sources of strength?

My family, friends, and dogs

What do you do to relax and recharge?

Hanging out with my two dogs, hiking, and traveling

What advice do you have for students?

Get involved in as much as you can and don't be afraid to try new things

Email: maricel.keller@lcps.org

Location: School Counseling Office

• M.Ed. School Counseling, Capella University
• Ph.D. Counselor Education & Supervision, Capella University

I love the students at Indy and their energy.  I always encourage students to “Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” (Roosevelt).  I am passionate about helping students become their better selves.  

Outside of school, I enjoy participating in and watching sports and going to the beach.

Email: jessica.benson@lcps.org

Location: School Counseling Office

• M.S. School Counseling, New York Institute of Technology.
• B.A. History, York College of Pennsylvania

What do you love about Indy?

The school spirit is unmatched!  Our students, teachers, and administrators work really hard to make Indy a place where students want to be and not have to go.  The community that has been built here is very special - it is inclusive, supportive, and affirming for all.

Who or what are your sources of strength?

Family, friends, and faith

What do you do to relax and recharge?

Whenever I need to recharge, getting outside and enjoying nature is my go to.  If only the beach was closer!  Relaxing with a cup of tea, a good book, or a cheesy Hallmark movie is the perfect way for me to relax.

What advice do you have for students?

My piece of advice is to find the right balance between academics and personal interests.  Participating in activities that bring you joy are often some of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences. High School goes by in the blink of an eye – enjoy getting involved, showing your school spirit and having fun! 

Email: jocelyn.culver@lcps.org

Location: School Counseling Office

• M.Ed. School Counseling, Liberty University
• B.S. Psychology, Charleston Southern University

What do you love about Indy?

The school spirit!

Who or what are your sources of strength?

My faith in Jesus.

What do you do to relax and recharge?

I enjoy listening to music or watching a good home makeover show.

What advice do you have for students?

If I could give one piece of encouragement to my students it would be, “in a world that is constantly changing, always be true to yourself."

Email: william.sidener@lcps.org 

Location: School Counseling Office

• M.Ed. School Counseling, George Mason University
• B.S. Sociology, Virginia Tech

Mr. Sidener will be joining the Independence High School counseling team in August 2023.  Prior to joining Independence, Mr. Sidener served as a school counselor for 25 years in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Email: laura.northart@lcps.org

Location: School Counseling Office

• M.A. School Counseling, Marymount University
• B.S. Psychology, Virginia Tech

What do you love about Indy?

We have a special group of students here at Indy, and I have enjoyed the strong school spirit and camaraderie felt within our building.

Who or what are your sources of strength?

My family and friends, and can't forget my English Bulldog Buster!

What do you do to relax and recharge?

My go to for recharging is a run outside.  To relax, I enjoy a good book or reality TV.

What advice do you have for students?

While high school can feel overwhelming at times, my advice to students is slow down and enjoy the ride – it will be over before you know it. Take advantage of the fun opportunities presented to you; high school isn’t just about academics – it is about getting involved, giving back, and having fun.

Email: ashley.montgomery@lcps.org

Location: School Counseling Office

• M.Ed. School Counseling, Capella University
• B.S. Business Marketing, James Madison University

What do you love about Indy?

I love Indy's spirit and overall welcoming atmosphere. Two of my favorite things are the coffee shop and supporting students in their extracurricular activities to watch them perform their passions.  Whether it is watching a school play or attending an athletic event, I love seeing students be involved and serve as active members within the school community.

Who or what are your sources of strength?

My family is my source of strength as they are my biggest cheerleaders who motivate me every day.  

What do you do to relax and recharge?

I enjoy running, drinking coffee, or watching my kids' sporting events - none of which sound relaxing; however, they bring me the most joy and make my heart full.

What advice do you have for students?

The biggest piece of advice I have for students is that you'll never know until you try.  Go confidently in the direction of your goals and dreams, and be sure to express gratitude along the way.

Email: shelby.lenox@lcps.org

Location: School Counseling Office

• M.Ed. School Counseling, Liberty University
• B.S. Therapeutic Recreation, Longwood University

What do you love about Indy?

The school spirit and atmosphere of the school

Who or what are your sources of strength?

My family and being able to spend time on litte adventures with my kids

What do you do to relax and recharge?

I enjoy reading, working out, and spending time outside.

What advice do you have for students?

I encourage students to try new things and get involved in clubs, activities, and sports here at Indy.  There are so many opportunities to get involved in our community.

Email: jasmin.quinones@lcps.org

Location: School Counseling Office

• M.Ed. School Counseling, Canisius College
• B.A. Communication, University of Buffalo

What do you love about Indy?

The school spirit - I always love to see students and staff represent in their Indy gear!

Who or what are your sources of strength?

Physical health - I find that small things like talking a walk or stretching can make a world of difference in my day.

What do you do to relax and recharge?

I enjoy time at home with my family watching Disney movies.

What advice do you have for students?

I encourage all students to take advantage of the full high school experience.  Try out different electives, join clubs, and use the time to explore your interests and curiosities.

Email: jill.perlman@lcps.org

Location: Career Center

• B.A. English, California State University, Chico

What do you love about Indy?

The quality of academics, sports, and resources available to our students.  If you can't find it here at Indy, it probably doesn't exist!

Who or what are your sources of strength?

The Indy students' successes.  Of course, family, friends and my two Labrador Retrievers Harper and Finley are my other shining lights.   

What do you do to relax and recharge?

When not at Indy, you can find me cooking, walking the dogs, or traveling to see my girls at their Midwest colleges.  

What advice do you have for students?

Be your authentic self.  Be open to new ideas and new friends.  Begin taking personal responsibility for everything you do.  

Email: amy.eways@lcps.org

Location: 1133 (off the main hallway across from the main office)

What do you love about Indy?

I love the pride that students and staff take to ensure Indy is an inclusive and supportive school.

Who or what are your sources of strength?

My source of strength is my family and friends that provide a strong support system.

What do you do to relax and recharge?

I love the beach! Any opportunity I have you will find me near the ocean!  Watching my boys play the sports they love also brings me a lot of joy and helps me recharge. 

What advice do you have for students?

Ask for help when you need it, look for the good in every situation, and celebrate the successes of others!

Email: frances.jester@lcps.org

Location: 1304

• M.A. Social Work, University of Chicago

• B.S. Biochemistry, North Carolina State University

 

What do you love about Indy? 

I love the positive energy at Indy.  The atmosphere is welcoming, supportive, and inclusive.

Who or what are your sources of strength? 

My family, friends, and my two dogs.

What do you do to relax and recharge? 

Spending time outdoors, reading, taking power naps, watching funny sitcoms or movies, and going to the beach.

What advice do you have for students?

1) Find a balance in anything you do; 2) Take the time to try something new—a class, activity, club, sport; and 3) Don't be afraid to ask for help.    

Email: kathryn.lemieux@lcps.org

Location: School Counseling Office

What do you love about Indy?

The sense of community and inclusivity not only within our department but throughout the building.  The school spirit is contagious and like none other.

Who or what are your sources of strength?

Family, both personally and my family here at work.  They have seen me through some rough times and the good times and still support me.

What do you do to relax and recharge?

I like to go on long walks or hikes and watch Hallmark movies.

What advice do you have for students?

To stay true to themselves, take care of themselves, and to stay in the moment.  

Email: amanda.sejas@lcps.org 

Location: School Counseling Office

What do you love about Indy?

I love the strong and compassionate community that is rooted in our faculty and staff and expressed by our students by their commitment to giving back and helping others.

Who or what are your sources of strength?

My friends and family are my primary sources of strength.  They have witnessed my growth and accomplishments over the years and are always ready to support me on my journey.

What do you do to relax and recharge?

Depending on my battery some quality time with my cats can help me relax but nothing compares to getting out in nature like at Great Falls where one can listen to the river while sitting in the rocks and trees.

What advice do you have for students?

It might sound a cheesy but I live by the motto of “Dare to be Different.”  High School is a place to grow and learn about yourself and your dreams before entering the world with whatever pathway you choose. So have fun, learn as much as you can, and be your most authentic self.

Email: donna.c.smith@lcps.org 

Location: School Counseling Office

• B.A. Chemistry, Mary Baldwin College

What do you love about Indy?

I really enjoy the positive and supporting school culture here at Indy.

Who or what are your sources of strength?

I find support through my friends, family, nature, and faith.  The wonderful greeting I get from my dog Pearl reminds me every day of the joy and love that can be found in the world.

What do you do to relax and recharge?

I like to explore the area through visiting parks, forests, taking hikes, etc.  I find strength and beauty in nature.  Spending time with family and friends is good for my soul and provides both strength and relaxation.  Gardening and reading a good book are also relaxing ways I spend my time.  Travelling excites me and recharges me.  I get a lot of energy from meeting new people and seeing new places. 

What advice do you have for students?

You get what you give - whether it be academically, socially, etc. If you put in the effort, you will succeed.  Don't be afraid to ask for help when needed.  We all need help sometimes.

Email: michelle.lewiscarey@lcps.org

Location: Main Office

• B.S. Economics, University of Pennsylvania

What do you love about Indy?

I am proud to be an Indy parent and happy to help families navigate the school system. One thing I love about Indy is the tremendous amount of community spirit. It is amazing how the staff and community always come together to support Independence students. As the Family Liaison, I am grateful to be able to work with students and families directly. Our goal is to help families meet their needs by connecting them to existing community resources. For more information about how the Family Liaison can assist families, please visit: https://www.lcps.org/Page/226095 

Who or what are your sources of strength?

My family and friends are my sources of strength.

What do you do to relax and recharge?

Sunshine and the sound of the ocean rejuvenate me. I also love to read fiction and listen to all types of music.

What advice do you have for students?

I would encourage students to always ask questions in class. Sometimes it can be uncomfortable to speak up, but there is always someone else who is thankful that you were brave enough to ask.