Position: School Counselor
School: Willow Grove Elementary School
School District: Poway Unified School District
City, State: San Diego, CA
Music that Describes Jill
Jill Gamelson was nominated by a colleague, Cindy Chille.
"Jill Gamelson joined our campus this year as our school's counselor. I can only describe Ms. Gamelson as a true 'ray of sunshine.' Wherever she goes on campus, she exudes joy and warmth. She truly cares about the students and staff, and it shows. She has made such a difference on our campus. Everyone loves her, and students feel safe, cared for, and comfortable in her presence," said Chille.
"She is often called out to assist with our most challenging students. When someone does not want to come to school, she can provide warmth and understanding and always convinces them to join us. Her second step lessons have improved our students' relationships on campus and teach empathy and understanding to our community," said Chille.
"This year, she even held an Autism Day fair during lunch/recess hours to create empathy and understanding among students and staff on campus. It was an amazing day, where students were introduced to adults with Autism and learned that even well-known people are on the Autism Spectrum. As a parent of a son on the Spectrum, this meant the world to me and is something I wish we had when my son was in school. To say Jill Gamelson has made a difference on our campus would be a huge understatement," said Chille.
"She is a valued and trusted community member after only one year! She has created wonderful relationships with staff and students and is an indispensable part of our campus," said Chille.