Lisa Kilcourse was nominated by her colleague, Virginia DeLong.
Ms. Kilcourse is the light in a dark storm for many kids. As an elementary school counselor, she touches the lives of so many of the littlest students. You won't find a kinder, more compassionate, or more loving person than Ms. Kilcourse. She radiates in so many ways, but her passion for being a school counselor truly shines through.
In her role, she is charged with helping students in grades K-4 with many of their needs, especially their social-emotional needs. The pandemic has had such an impact on students, and the need for people like Ms. Kilcourse is so important. She teaches students valuable skills in the classroom, while also attending to their individual and small group needs. She's a strong advocate for her students and a strong proponent of teaching kids social-emotional competencies like that of CASEL. Ms. Kilcourse works hard to choose materials that are culturally sensitive and teach kids that we are different in many ways that need to be celebrated. She has also worked to expand her library of books to include a variety of topics that are age-appropriate, but sensitive to the needs of all of her students.
In addition to all the amazing work she does every day as a school counselor, she also spends a good portion of her "free time" volunteering for the CT School Counselor Association, where she serves as a Director on the Board of Directors. She's also the public relations chair and a member of the conference committee. Through this organization, she spends countless hours working on behalf of school counselors across the state. It's no surprise that she was the CT School Counselor of the Year runner-up for the 2021-2022 school year!
"Ms. Kilcourse truly is an amazing, dedicated educator who is an enormous asset to the profession. I'm sure you could ask anyone she's worked with, including her students, and they'd tell you the same. She's a LifeChanger in my book," said DeLong.
I have been lucky enough to count Lisa as a friend for years. She is truly an incredible person, which makes an impact on every life she touches. When she speaks about her work, her passion shines through. It is clear to anyone that meets her that she genuinely cares for the children she supports, guides and ultimately helps.
Lisa has always been a great friend and someone who truly cares about others and how they are doing. Hearing Lisa talk about her work at the school and specifically working with the children, you can hear her passionate, care and dedication to her job and the kids. She is a life changer and one of the best!
As a parent of two children who went through Head O' Meadow, I was always aware of and impressed by the work Lisa was doing in the school. You can't walk through Head O' Meadow and NOT feel the presence of Lisa's efforts to create an atmosphere of kindness and growth for all students. She is clearly there to support the well-being of ALL students, and not just those on her caseload. My children used to attend her Lunch Bunch sessions, just one of the services she offers to all students. As a member of the school's Safe School Climate Committee, I got to see just how much Lisa was involved with planning spirit days and other fun events for the entire school that fostered a sense of inclusion and togetherness, all essential for creating a wonderful school climate. Now, as a new staff member at Head O' Meadow, I'm seeing just how much Lisa does for the well-being of the entire staff. She is our constant cheerleader, motivator, and counselor, reminding us to breathe, stretch, and to take care of ourselves so we can be present for the students. To say Lisa goes above and beyond is an understatement; she really embodies everything a great school counselor should be, and she is so very deserving of the LifeChanger of the Year award. We're so lucky to have her at Head O' Meadow!
I met Lisa in the summer of 2020 when districts throughout the nation were trying to come up with plans for the return to school during the COVID pandemic. We were members of a subcommittee tasked with considering "wellness and mitigation strategies." Lisa thought of things the rest of us might not have seen. She was an important part of ensuring that we did everything we could to keep students in school and learning while everything else changed. I am thankful for everything she contributed to our school plans that kept students learning in a safe environment.
Lisa is a great friend. She always makes sure to check in on how things are going in a truly genuine way. She always speaks passionately about school and her work on the CT Counselor’s Board. Lisa is a very important person to everyone she meets. She is a life changer.
Lisa Kilcourse should be the Life changer of the year Winner.
She has a unique feature-set not seen in many over my 40+ year career working at Blue Chip Fortune 500 companies and small businesses.
She uses the philosophy of:
1. Assess an Issue or Problem
2. Produce a Plan of Action
3. Execute the Plan according to plan on time
What makes her unique is that she can problem solve a wide variety of issues even if she is not a subject manner expert.
As a counselor she works with the children, parents, guardians, siblings of children, teachers, Administration, compliance issues, etc.
AND in an emergency presents a cool, calm approach and always gets the job all for the benefit of the student.
I know because I am her father of which has a much higher standard for her than most!
Mrs. Kilcourse has been instrumental in my child’s transition to elementary school and success in the classroom. She is such a warm, kind and genuine person and my son looks forward to his weekly time with her. The 2020 shutdown was difficult on everyone and Mrs. Kilcourse still made time for her students remotely. Watching my son interact with her was incredible. It is evident how knowledgeable she is and how much she respects the students and their needs. My son has come a long way in terms of his behavior and I now receive compliments on how kind and polite he is. I truly believe this is largely because of the influence Mrs. Kilcourse has had on him. She is phenomenal at her job and this nomination is so well deserved. As a Head O’Meadow parent, I feel so fortunate she is available for my children.
Lisa Kilcourse is an exceptional educator. Anyone who has been fortunate to work with her can attest that she is deserving of this honor. I have observed her profound, positive impact on our students and the entire school community. It would be impossible to list and explain all of her accomplishments or the small acts of kindness and positivity that Mrs. Kilcourse spreads to our school each day. If there is something that is needed, she always finds a way to figure out a solution to help solve the problem. She does not seek praise or attention. She strives to do her best everyday for our students and families. Her influence and impact is immeasurable. Every school should be fortunate enough to have Mrs. Kilcourse as a counselor. Every member of our school community would attest that she is the best of the best!
I have been working with young children for over 20 years and in that time I've worked with many educators. Lisa stands out above the rest as being a role model for social and emotional learning. Lisa brings kindness, compassion, and professionalism into her daily interactions with staff and students. She is always available and goes above and beyond to help students and colleagues. I believe that Lisa is a life changer! Her commitment to her role is evident to all who have the opportunity to be around her. Lisa's enthusiasm and kindness are contagious and in working with her I cannot help but strive to be a better person. Congratulations on this well deserved nomination!
Lisa has done a wonderful job in her role as sole counselor of a large elementary school. She strives to make a difference in the lives of those who cross her path. Whether with her direct work with students or in collaboration with faculty or in her partnerships with parents her efforts do not go unnoticed as she is a valuable and appreciated member of the school community.
What a wonderful honor to be recognized in this way. No surprise here. you are an extraordinary counselor with a heart of gold! You are always a positive contributor in ANY situation and your smiling face puts everyone in the room at ease. Students, staff, and families know how dedicated your are and your commitment to their best interests. On behalf of Newtown Public Schools...Congrats!
From the moment I met Lisa, I knew she was special. Lisa has a presence that changes a classroom. Her subtle approach is always kind, engaging, and the reason all students are lined up to meet with her. When you see her doing her thing with children, it brings a smile to your face as you know that the student is in good hands and their day will be brighter. Lisa’s work does not end with the students. Her role in the building as a leader and supporter of staff is unwavering. Lisa’s dedication and commitment to staff and students truly make her a LifeChanger. It has been such an honor to call her a colleague. Thank you, Lisa, for all you do everyday!
Lisa is essential in making Head O’Meadow (HOM) School feel like home. She supports both our students and our staff with her friendly, welcoming, outgoing nature. Lisa is a life changer because in addition to always being there for all of us, she also is always looking for new ways to connect with staff and students. Recently Lisa reached out to me as a library media specialist to put together a list of books together that would reflect all people, for students to see their reflection in literature. These books were ordered and placed in every classroom. This is just one example of many with how Lisa is changing lives everyday.
When I think of Lisa, the words dedicated, compassionate and professional immediately come to mind. She goes above and beyond when it comes to her work with students, as well as her involvement in our school community. We at HOM feel so fortunate to have someone so incredible on our staff, and I can't imagine that there is anyone more deserving of this honor. Thank you for all you do, Lisa!!
Lisa has been our school counselor for several years. She goes above and beyond to support both students and staff in our building. She gives endlessly to our school through SEL lessons, lunch bunches, individual counseling, restorative and self care practices for staff, and so much more. We are so grateful to have her. This is a well deserved honor. Congratulations, Lisa!
I have been lucky enough to have Lisa as my school counselor for many years. She works tirelessly to meet the needs of all students and staff. Our building would not be the same without her dedication, expertise and commitment. She is very deserving of this honor as I have personally seen her change lives. Thank you for all you do Lisa!! Congratulations!
Lisa is an incredibly compassionate counselor who cares so deeply for the students and staff at our school. She goes above and beyond each day by planning special programming, uplifting everyone during stressful times and is always available to talk or give advice with her absolute attention. Lisa is a remarkable human being.
We are so fortunate to have Lisa as our school counselor. Lisa goes above and beyond every day to ensure that our students’ social and emotional needs are met. She has taken on the added responsibility of making sure our staff engages in restorative and self care practices knowing that we can not pour from an empty cup. She comes to our classes and provides fun and engaging lessons for our students. Her online and in person Zen Dens have provided us with much needed self care resources and practices and has helped both staff and students during these difficult times. She has a kind and gentle manner that immediately puts you at ease. Every encounter with her leaves you feeling hopeful and cared for. She is so deserving of this honor! Thank you for all you do, Lisa!
I’ve known Lisa since the fifth grade and I’m so grateful for our friendship. It makes so much sense that she became a school counselor, is loved by so many, and excels at her work because I have always known her to be an empathetic friend and excellent listener. She is quick witted and perceptive. I am inspired by the care and attention she puts into her job. It is clear how much she loves it. Her students and colleagues are so fortunate to have her.
Lisa has such an infectious personality, she is perfectly suited as a school counselor. Her compassion, drive and impact that she has on each student is admirable! Congratulations, Lisa!
Lisa is the true definition of a school counselor! She is consistently working to ensure that not only her students but her colleagues feel supported! She is an ear to listen to so many. She is a woman of many kind gestures that continue to brighten days. She is well versed in all of the new CSCA updates and does a great job at making sure our district is informed. Lisa is an outstanding counselor, friend and colleague. Lisa has a kind heart and will do anything for anyone. She is more than deserving of this amazing nomination! Congratulations Lisa! I feel so lucky to work alongside of you!!
Lisa is always smiling and has a “bright light” personality. Lisa is such a positive person that it overflows to everyone around her. I highly recommend her for this award.
Mary Breen, BSW
Lisa is a wonderful advocate for school counseling! It has been an absolute joy working with her on the Connecticut School Counselor Association board over the years. She is always positive, has wonderful ideas and executes them to perfection. In addition, she is truly changing lives as an elementary school counselor. Her role is so important because she is able to work with students while they are young and really makes a profound impact on them. Thanks Lisa for all that you do!
I've known Lisa since middle school and have witnessed her transformed into the most amazing, caring and dedicated school counselor. She deserves all of the recognition for everything she has accomplished and for everyone she has helped along the way. Congrats, Lisa!
Lisa is a kind, caring and thoughtful school counselor. She works endlessly to help the students and staff work through difficult times. Lisa has a heart of gold. She is happy to go the extra mile to help all. She exudes happiness and joy. She is a ray of sunshine to the HOM school community. Lisa is so well deserving of this honor. Congratulations!
Lisa is an extraordinary school counselor! She develops wonderful SEL lessons for every classroom, as well as lunch bunch groups and individual counseling. She always seems to have the magical touch to ease situations and move them forward. She is truly an amazing educator, who provides positive support for students, staff, and families. She is a wonderful asset to our school community. She is well-deserving of this recognition.
Lisa is one of the most selfless, kind hearted, and encouraging people I know. She is always there to help or listen no matter how small or large the situation may be. She loves what she does and is so deserving of this achievement. I am grateful to have Lisa as a role model. Congratulations, Lisa!
I have known Lisa for years and she is an important part of both of my children's lives. I feel so blessed that my girls have Lisa to look up to as a mentor and I couldn't support her nomination for this award in a higher regard. She is a kind, generous soul to devotes much of her time to bringing others comfort and joy.
Lisa has been a mentor for me in several ways that have changed my life for the better. Lisa was my supervisor as a school counseling intern and guided me through knowing and loving elementary school counseling. I learned so much from what she taught me directly and what I learned from her general demeanor- calm, caring, and knowledgeable. Lisa works with individuals, groups, teaches engaging lessons, and is on several committees (leadership team, safe school climate committee, and beyond) to ensure her school is a safe and inclusive environment. Working by her side allowed me to watch her in action- her visibility and involvement led to being a very busy counselor as the members of the school community have put their trust in Lisa for support and she never disappoints. Lisa also connected me to CT School Counselor Association as she has been heavily involved in several roles. She uses these positions to advocate for students and counselors to change the world one meeting at a time. I am proud to work alongside Lisa as a colleague now. She inspires me daily to be the best school counselor I can be. When I am in a tough situation, I ask myself, "What would Lisa do?" and that is how I know she will forever be my life changer.
Lisa puts her heart and soul into making sure all students, staff, friends, and family feel accepted. I am blessed to know thatvshe is here for me and even more the students she sees and interacts with everyday. It is the little things that make a difference.
Lisa is so deserving of this honor! She is kind, caring, compassionate, and supportive. Lisa not only supports students, but staff and colleagues — she’s a dedicated professional who will stop at nothing to help others in needs
Lisa Kilcourse is a true leader with a heart of gold, and touches the lives of all she encounters, from children to adults to animals.
I’ve had the privilege of working with Lisa for years and can attest to her phenomenal counseling skills and work ethic. Her passion for school counseling is contagious and she is a wealth of knowledge of the ever evolving field. Her students and colleagues are so lucky to know her. She is moving mountains and changing lives everyday. :)
As a person who knew Lisa when she first began her counseling career, I am not at all surprised that she has been nominated. So well deserved. She is the consummate professional! Current with emerging trends and issues and up to date with legislation. More importantly, she is compassionate, patient and goes out of the way for her students. She establishes relationships with respect.
She is a creative thinker, action oriented and has a wicked sense of humor. Well done Lisa!
Lisa is the most dedicated, kind, caring school counselor. She devotes hours and hours of her time helping young children and staff members cope with hard times. She consoles the hurting and encourages the weak. Lisa volunteers her extra time on counseling boards and keeps up with the growing trends and learning new techniques to
aide the needs of her children. One can rely on her to get the job done and be the first one to respond to a tough situation. I feel Lisa deserves this honor more than anyone. Her time and love she puts into her work shines through in her students and faculty. I vote for Lisa!
Congratulations Lisa!
Good luck!
Lisa is an amazing school counselor, colleague, friend and overall person. She truly lights yo any room she walks into and has a way to make people feel comfortable. She is simply the best and this is so well deserved. She is beyond outstanding and I am so proud of all of her hard work and time she takes to care for every person she encounters!
I met Lisa our sophomore year at the University of Connecticut. In the 19 years that we’ve known one another I can honestly say I’ve never met a more loyal, empathetic and driven person than Lisa. Lisa has been there for me through the good times and the bar. She is undoubtedly that one person who knows will always be there for her friends no matter what. There is no one more deserving of such an honor. Congratulations Lis!
Not only does Lisa exemplify a life changing influence on many lives, she does this with enthusiasm, patience, and sensitivity. Every school needs a team of with Lisa’s skills and compassion.
Lisa is the epitome of a life changer, as a professional school counselor. She works tirelessly to support the students, families, and staff members at hey elementary school. Even further, she is a leader & advocate, and I cannot think of someone more deserving of this acknowledgment!
Although I’ve worked with Lisa’s sister for many years, I feel like I know Lisa. I’ve come to hear so many amazing stories about what a great school counselor she is. Lisa has gotten to know me through her sister as well and checks in with me on Facebook. She is a kind and caring educator who puts her students first. Congratulations on the nomination Lisa. So proud of you!!
