School Counselor of the Year

School Counselor, Bella Vista Elementary
Palm Springs Unified School District

Damon is an outstanding and passionate school counselor that has demonstrated a strong determination for student wellbeing. In 2021–2022 Damon facilitated the Counseling Collaboration, which included P.E. coaches, and was the most successful and meaningful collaboration for student success that he has ever done as a school counselor. Damon also developed the Counselor Climb, an evening event for students and parents at a community rock climbing gym in which parents practice encouraging their children while they rock climb.

Damon provided support to parents and teachers during the pandemic by creating resources, contacting families for specific referrals or assistance, and helping with contacting parents of students who were not participating. He encouraged mindfulness in his social-emotional learning virtual lessons and would remind students that were having a hard time to use those mindful skills such as breathing, repeating positive affirmations, and talking to someone when feeling sad. The students at Bella Vista are always eager to see him and welcome him into their classrooms. Damon values student agency and voice, and therefore, he creates conditions for students to develop their leadership skills. His humility, humor and optimistic outlook make him a very remarkable counselor!

Damon's Message

"I appreciate my principal, Lisa Arseo, for giving me the opportunity to start my elementary counselor career at Bella Vista Elementary. The support I have received, especially this year returning from the pandemic, has allowed me to work and be aligned with the ASCA National Model. You have always given time and amazing suggestions. Dr. Nava—You have been a beacon of hope, motivation, and direction over the last year. I have used your input on the ASCA model and RAMP to make more productive use of my time, and it has brought in appreciation and support for elementary counseling and the RAMP program in Palm Springs Unified School District. Tanisha Taylor—I  always have support and guidance from you; guidance that has boosted me and all 16 elementary counselors with Palm Springs Unified School District. Our elementary team was not idle during our virtual time, but rather we are unified and productive from your leadership. To the students and staff at Bella Vista Elementary—you all are amazing. You have given me inspiration and guidance. Our teachers have shown me the uniqueness and power of elementary instruction. Thank you all!"