counseling

I grew up with my family in Connecticut before attending Assumption College in Worcester, MA to earn my bachelor's degree in Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies, with minors in Education and Psychology. While at Assumption, I was a member of the women’s basketball team for four years. Prior to graduation, I earned my master's degree in Education with a focus in School Counseling at Springfield College in May of 2019. As a graduate student at Springfield, I was also an assistant coach with the women’s basketball team. I was fortunate to complete my school counseling practicum at Renaissance and am grateful that I am able to begin my career here as well as I enter my 4th year! 

Working with the 12th graders, I support with post-secondary readiness, whether students are thinking they want to attend college after high school, enter into a trade, or join the military. I work with the Springfield Promise Program in the SPS district. These are our financial aid advisors that support our students with financial aid documents such as the FAFSA and CSS Profile. In addition, I am the 100 Males to College Success Coach for the Renaissance group.

-Updated 10/18/2022

I grew up in a small town in Central Massachusetts before attending Fitchburg State University and earning my Bachelor's degree in Human Services. In 2019 I moved to Westfield Massachusetts and attended Springfield College where I earned my Master's degree in School Counseling. While attending Springfield College I worked at Central High School as a college financial aid advisor where I helped students navigate paying for and applying for college. After graduation I began my career as a school counselor here at Renaissance where I work with students in grades 7 and 11. In addition, I am the middle school 504 chairperson. When I am not working, you can find me walking my dog on new trails, spending time with my family and friends, or spending time outside. 

Please do not hesitate to reach out through my office phone or email above, and I look forward to working together this upcoming school year!

Sanyalee De Jesús is entering her second year at Renaissance and eleventh year as a School Counselor in Springfield. Prior to becoming a School Counselor, she was a Spanish teacher at Forest Park Middle School and taught at the elementary level at Sabis International Charter School.  Born in Springfield, MA., Mrs. De Jesús spent time living and attending school in Puerto Rico as well as in Philadelphia, PA.   She graduated from the High School of Science & Technology and went on to attend the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, MA where she obtained her bachelor’s degree. She then pursued her master’s and CAGS in Educational Psychology with a focus in School Guidance Counseling at American International College.  Mrs. De Jesús is excited to be joining the Renaissance community and is looking forward to connecting with students and families this upcoming school year. 

I am beyond excited to join the Springfield Renaissance community! I grew up in East Longmeadow but have only just recently returned after living in Chicago for the past 10 years. I have a B.S. in Elementary Education from Loyola University Chicago and began my teaching career as a middle school math teacher in the West Side of the city back in 2016. Throughout my five years of teaching, I found a passion for equity in education and social justice that piloted me to pursue a career in school counseling. I have recently graduated from Northeastern Illinois University with a M.Ed. in Counseling and am excited to put that degree to use! When I am not working, you can typically find me outside either hiking, swimming at the beach, or reading in the pool!

As the 6th and 9th grade counselor I focus on supporting students in their transition to the next phase of their education journey! I am also the high school 504 and STAT chair which allows me to collaborate with students, parents, staff, and the community in order to provide resources for students to be successful at Renaissance.

I was born and raised in Springfield, Massachusetts, and attended Springfield Public Schools. I graduated with my bachelor's degree in Psychology from Westfield State University, and then earned my master's degree and CAGS in Educational Psychology with a focus in School Counseling from American International College. I am a licensed school counselor who completed my internship hours at Putnam High School.

This is my fifteenth year in education but my second year as the City Connects Coordinator at Springfield Renaissance School. As the Middle School City Connects Coordinator, my mission is to establish long-term support, interventions, enrichment programs, and community resources to promote students’ academic, family, health, or social and emotional needs. Building trusting and effective relationships with students, educators, families, and the Springfield community will promote equity, remove barriers, and empower all students to succeed and realize their fullest potential in life. Highlights of my professional career include liaising with River Valley Community Center, Law Enforcement & Youth Mentor Program, Weekend Backpack Program, and establishing a Catie’s Closet.

I am married with two amazing children, and I love to read, garden and travel with my family. Please feel free to contact me. 

– Updated 10/16/22

I support students in creating a strategic plan to improve grades, and test scores, or recover credits so they can reach their goal for on-time graduation and pursue their dreams post-high school.

This is my 1st year in the position of High School Graduation Coach and my 17th year in social work. I am available to support students in setting achievable goals. By getting to know students culturally and academically, I am able to better meet their social and emotional needs. I encourage open-mindedness that will allow students to think globally and prepare them to compete on the world stage with competence and confidence.

Education:

Graduated from Sci-Tech

Undergraduate Studies - Hampton University

Graduate Studies - Springfield College

-Updated 10/18/22

– Updated 10/16/22