CDS Celebrates National School Counselor Week

 

Counselors Week

In honor of National School Counselor Week, Carrollwood Day School celebrates the incredible dedication and impact of our school counselors, who play a vital role in shaping our students' academic, social, and emotional success. From providing guidance and support to fostering resilience and personal growth, our counselors are committed to helping every student thrive. We took the opportunity to hear directly from them about their passion for their work, the moments that inspire them, and what drives their commitment to student success. Join us as we highlight their voices and recognize the invaluable role they play in our school community!
 


Mrs. Malu Molano, Lower School Counselor

molano

Mrs. Malu Molano is the Lower School Counselor at CDS’s Early Childhood Campus. Originally from Brazil, she has extensive experience working with students of all ages, providing counseling, advisory programs, and parenting workshops. A strong advocate for mindfulness and yoga for children, she recently presented on classroom mindfulness at the American School Association of South America conference. 

Before joining CDS in 2017, Mrs. Molano served as a guidance counselor at international schools in Brazil and Mexico and taught psychology at Endicott College’s Mexico City campus. She holds an M.A. in Clinical and School Counseling from Johns Hopkins University and a B.S. from Marymount University.

School Counselors Help Students Thrive by...being by their side when things are difficult.

I Know Students are Thriving When...I see them interact in a positive way with their community.

I Thrive as a School Counselor When...I hear students overcome challenges because of the skills they learned in counseling.

I'm a School Counselor Because...I love working with children.

Every Student Needs a School Counselor...who can listen and understand them unconditionally.


Ms. Kristin Calvert, Lower School Counselor

kristin calvert

Ms. Kristin Calvert is a Lower School Counselor at CDS, bringing over 20 years of experience in education, primarily in independent schools. Before transitioning to counseling, she taught elementary grades and held various leadership roles, including Dean of Students and student government advisor. 

Passionate about social-emotional learning, Ms. Calvert is trained in restorative practices, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness. She recently attended the Character Strong National Conference to enhance CDS’s character education program. She holds an M.S. in School Counseling from Walden University, an M.A.T. in Early Childhood Education from UMBC, and a B.A. in Psychology and Sociology from Randolph-Macon College.

School Counselors Help Students Thrive by...teaching them skills and strategies to build their social/emotional "toolbox." 

I Know Students are Thriving When...they use a strategy that we have taught them and they share how helpful our support was.

I Thrive as a School Counselor When...I can work collaboratively with students, teachers, parents, and all other stakeholders.

I'm a School Counselor Because...I know how valuable social/emotional development is and how it's the foundation for learning and well-being.

Every Student Needs a School Counselor Who...listens and understands their individual needs and advocates on their behalf.


Ms. Claire Dosher, Lower School Counselor Intern

claire dosher

A proud Patriot alumna, Ms. Claire Dosher '17 returns to Carrollwood Day School as a Lower School Counselor Intern, bringing her passion for mental health and student support to the community that shaped her. A CDS student since Pre-K3, her journey came full circle when she rejoined the school after earning her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Stetson University. She also holds a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Mississippi. 

With experience in clinical counseling and education, Ms. Dosher is dedicated to fostering social-emotional growth in young learners. She leads classroom lessons, small groups, and one-on-one counseling to ensure every child feels supported. This summer, she explored four European countries in 26 days, embracing new cultures and perspectives. Now, she brings that same curiosity and enthusiasm into her work at CDS, helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

School Counselors Help Students Thrive by...listening and helping them find solutions. 

I Know Students are Thriving When...they shine with pride in themselves and their work. 

I Thrive as a School Counselor When...the student's are thriving.

I'm a School Counselor Because...I believe in the power of emotional well-being and the foundation it brings to kid's health.

Every Student Needs a School Counselor Who...sees, understands, and accepts them for who they are. 


Mrs. Sara Tullis, Middle School Counselor and School Counseling Department Chair

sara tullis

As the Middle School Counselor and School Counseling Department Chair, Mrs. Sara Tullis is dedicated to supporting students' social-emotional well-being and academic success. A Tampa native and Licensed Mental Health Counselor, she holds a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Florida and an M.A. in School Counseling from the University of South Florida.

Mrs. Tullis’s counseling approach blends Positive Psychology and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, helping students build resilience, set goals, and develop problem-solving skills. She provides individual and small-group counseling, classroom guidance lessons, and oversees the advisory program. This summer, she had the life-changing opportunity to travel to Japan through CDS’s Round Square Faculty Exchange program, gaining global insights to enhance student support. Before joining CDS in 2021, Mrs. Tullis spent seven years as a school counselor in Riverview. An avid traveler and book lover, she enjoys running, exploring new places, and spending time with her energetic American Bulldog, Jackson.

School Counselors Help Students Thrive by...accepting them for who they are; by fostering an environment where they feel respected and understood.

I Know Students are Thriving When...they recognize that they are. An optimistic or positive outlook can be challenging at any age, but especially in adolescence. Any acknowledgement of their own strength and resilience is a win! 

I Thrive as a School Counselor When...the community as a whole recognizes the power in asking or advocating for help. We are all works in progress, seeking a counselor’s guidance through that process is strength, not weakness.  

I'm a School Counselor Because...I am a lifelong learner. I have always loved school and hoped to be a small part in helping students see both the value in education and impact of prioritizing one’s own development of character as well as their social and emotional wellbeing. 

Every Student Needs a School Counselor Who...shows up. 


Mr. Pedro Miller, Upper School Counselor

pedro miller

As an Upper School Counselor, Mr. Pedro Miller is dedicated to guiding students through their Upper School journey, ensuring they maintain a healthy and balanced social-emotional experience. With a background in both teaching and counseling, Mr. Miller brings a wealth of experience to CDS, having worked as a counselor for middle and high school students since 2014. He holds both a B.S. in Elementary Education and an M.S. in School Counseling and Student Services from Kansas State University.

Passionate about student empowerment, Mr. Miller combines his counseling expertise with strong leadership to help students thrive. He also serves as the Program Coordinator for The Duke of Edinburgh International Award at CDS. Originally from Brazil, Mr. Miller is fluent in Portuguese and Spanish. An Eagle Scout at heart, he loves hiking, camping, and exploring the outdoors, something he enjoys sharing with his students as they venture outdoors on Duke of Edinburgh adventures, gaining independence and self-sufficiency. 

School Counselors Help Students Thrive by...helping them find their voice, bring awareness to their emotions and empower them to better understand themselves. 

I Know Students are Thriving When...they see themselves growing and improving in areas they never thought possible. 

I Thrive as a School Counselor When...students leave my office feeling seen, heard and validated. 

I'm a School Counselor Because...I want to empower students to empower themselves and those around them. 

Every Student Needs a School Counselor Who...listens, supports, and advocates on their behalf. 


Mrs. Fay Noil, Upper School Counselor

faye noil

As an Upper School Counselor at CDS, Mrs. Fay Noil is committed to supporting students in grades 9–12, helping them navigate the challenges of high school while fostering personal and academic growth. Originally from North Carolina, Mrs. Noil brings a wealth of life experience to her role, after having served for 30 years in the U.S. Air Force. Her military career took her around the world, allowing her to build deep connections with diverse communities and develop a passion for mentorship and guidance.

Mrs. Noil holds an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in School Counseling from Florida State University, equipping her with the expertise to provide comprehensive support to students. Now, as part of the CDS family, she is eager to collaborate with students, parents, and faculty to create a supportive and enriching environment. She believes in empowering students to seize every opportunity and reach their fullest potential. With a heart for service and a dedication to student success, Mrs. Noil is excited to embark on this new journey with the CDS community.

School Counselors Help Students Thrive by…providing encouragement, and motivation to use the gifts within themselves. 

I Know Students are Thriving When...I see a celebration of the accomplishment of using their gifts and activating their skills. The smile they display is also a great sign. 

I Thrive as a School Counselor When...I hear how students have accomplished something they were nervous about or doubted their abilities. This sense of accomplishment builds confidence, and it is amazing to see students evolving. 

I'm a School Counselor Because..I want to give back to our future. Every kid deserves a school counselor. I feel privileged to fill that role, to see the next generation of movers and shakers. 

Every Student Needs a School Counselor Who…meets them where they are, is authentic and empathetic. 


At Carrollwood Day School, we are reminded of the profound impact our counselors have on our students and school community. Their dedication, empathy, and unwavering support help shape confident, resilient, and thriving individuals. We are grateful for all they do, today and every day!