Dr. Corliss Thompson Drew- Creating Relationships- 35 years

Dr. Corliss Thompson Drew- the leader of all of us crazy, passionate and driven people is celebrating 35 years as a School Psychologist this year. When reflecting on the years she remarked that "There are a host of people, a village, that have supported, encouraged, and helped me to get where I am today." With feeling the support of others, Dr. Thompson Drew also wants to support and impact our students. She writes "I feel a responsibility to pay that forward and lend a hand to others. I have been a mentor to high school students for several years and find that I learn as much from them as they do from me. Sometimes it’s challenging but it’s always rewarding, especially when I see them accomplish goals that they set." 

 When discussing what small steps are needed to change our students lives, she believes forming relationships and having communication with families is key. " In my career, it has always been important to spend time meeting with and talking with parents. I have found it very valuable to establish that relationship early on and to be an advocate. Many times, it’s just being there to listen, to hear their story. It’s in the telling of their story that I can connect with parents and support them in a way that is personalized and meet their needs."

 A change that she has experienced in her career as a school psychologist is the increase in number and intensity of the students behavioral health issues. In order to successfully tackle this raising issue, she believes "we must understand the social emotional needs of kids and how they impact their academic achievement and overall adjustment." Much work has been accomplished in this area of need, but there is still more that needs to be done to support our students. 

 Dr. Thompson Drew believes we can get there and would like "to see our district develop a comprehensive safe school plan that incorporates programs, resources, services, and activities that promote a positive, safe school climate." 

 She not only stands up for students and our parents but also for us as a department. She supports us and believes in our ability to provide the best services we can to the communities we serve. She also pushes us and strives for us to reach new goals. She stated  "Additionally, I would like to see that school psychologists are truly able to provide comprehensive psychological services for all students."

 Thank you for all visible and invisible things you do to support us all! Happy 35 years. 

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