LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Erin Allen was nominated by a colleague who wishes to remain anonymous.

Previously, Ms. Allen was one of two psychologists in the past few years, but is now the lone full-time psychologist this year, and is a key member of the staff who helps students every day. She brought a social thinking curriculum program to help students who struggled with behavior and other issues. She also works with students on emotional self-regulation.

Ms. Allen has been critical in training staff on de-escalation techniques. Along with the daily duties of her position, she is called upon many, many times during the day to help with students who are having behavioral or emotional issues. During these times, she is always calm and soothing, and uses her creativity to come up with a resolution to the problem. When she is called upon to service students, she does so without hesitation if she is available.

"Erin goes above and beyond what is expected on many occasions. She does work side by side with our school counselors, Julie Baran and Colleen Davis. Together they make an excellent counseling team. They work well together, are very willing to cover each other no matter the grade level or the familiarity with that student, and are flexible," her nominator said. "Not only do they help our students, but they also help our staff when they need a shoulder to cry on, a hug, or mental wellness advice. Each of these ladies has her own style and talents that they bring to Bolivar Road, but their teamwork binds them together and makes them a vital part of our school. Erin deserves recognition for all that she does for Bolivar Road School and the Chittenango School District, both individually and as part of a fantastic team."