Jennifer Lhotak
Wagner
Summary
Accomplished counselor with expertise in individual counseling and crisis intervention, enhancing student success at Wagner Community School. Developed impactful academic programs and maintained confidential records. Collaborated effectively with educators and families, fostering a supportive environment. Recognized for leadership and advocacy, driving a 20% increase in student engagement through innovative initiatives.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
High School Counselor
Wagner Community School
Wagner
08.2021 - Current
- Maintained confidentiality while documenting incidents to uphold academic integrity.
- Facilitated individual counseling sessions addressing personal challenges for students.
- Coordinated events promoting mental health awareness and available support services.
- Developed academic guidance programs enhancing student success rates.
- Collaborated with teachers to assess student needs and create intervention plans.
- Maintained confidential student records in compliance with privacy regulations.
- Assisted families in accessing community resources and support services efficiently.
- Counseled students on academic, career, and college planning options.
Traffic Management Officer
114th Fighter Wing
Sioux Falls
01.2000 - Current
- Deployed to the Middle East from Sept 2024-April 2025
- September 2024-Februrary 2025 worked in inbound cargo
- February 2025 forward deployed to Qatar as a full-time Sexual Assault Victim Advocate
- Provided emotional support to survivors during crisis intervention sessions.
- Assisted clients in navigating legal and medical resources effectively.
- Created a safe environment for survivors to express their feelings without fear or judgement.
- Developed safety plans tailored to individual client needs and situations.
- Participated in training sessions to enhance advocacy skills and knowledge of services available.
- Organized outreach events such as workshops and trainings on sexual assault awareness
- Attended Air Force Office of Special Investigations interviews with clients as an advocate for victims of sexual assault.
- Ensured compliance with safety regulations and protocols.
- Developed strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
- Committed to detail in doing the job right the first time, in completing tasks.
- Team player to support the mission.
- Received the Class Leader Award at Technical Training School.
- Completed Basic Combat Training with Honors.
Middle & High School Counselor
Andes Central School District
Lake Andes
08.2015 - 05.2021
- Advised National Honor Society, promoting leadership and academic excellence among members.
- Established policies to govern student behavior, ensuring compliance with administrative standards.
- Cultivated partnerships with employers to enhance internship and employment opportunities for students.
- Evaluated student abilities and interests through assessments, records, and interviews.
- Conducted classes on educational and career planning topics to guide student futures.
- Collaborated with parents, teachers, and administrators to resolve academic and behavioral issues.
- Monitored attendance to identify students at risk of dropping out.
- Developed intervention plans aimed at improving student success.
High School Counselor
Marty Indian School
Marty
09.2013 - 05.2015
- Maintained a high regard for student confidentiality
- Documented conversations and incidents in detail
- Supported academic and career success
- Worked with individuals to assist him/her in coping with personal, social, academic, career, and family concerns
- Administered the NWEA/MAPS test, Smarter Balanced test, and Dakota STEP test
- Provided crisis intervention strategies where students felt comfortable to share; resulted in increased personal growth, self-understanding, and maturity
- Evaluated transcripts to make certain each student was on track toward high school graduation/college admission
- Registered students for classes
- Assisted students with college scholarships and applications; ensured all paperwork met requirements and was completed in a timely manner
- Team player to support school mission
- Promoted warm and positive school climate
- Collaborated to resolve students’ academic handicaps, including learning disabilities, family issues, and peer problems
- Adhered to professional and ethical guidelines
- Consultant for students, made referrals to community agencies and recommended intervention plans to assist in students’ development
- Advocate for ALL students
Middle & High School Counselor
Sioux Valley School District
Volga
02.1999 - 01.2013
- Administered PSAT, ACT, and Smarter Balance assessments as District Testing Coordinator.
- Executed Infinite Campus Scheduling, creating and editing master and student schedules.
- Documented conversations involving students, parents, and staff while ensuring confidentiality.
- Supported academic success through college visits, Career Planning Days, and Freshmen Impact events.
- Collaborated with Upward Bound, TRIO, and college representatives to expand student opportunities.
- Implemented crisis intervention strategies to promote personal growth among students.
- Assisted students with college scholarships and applications, ensuring timely submission of paperwork.
- Promoted positive school climate while adhering to ethical guidelines.
Education
Master of Science - School Counseling
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD12.1999
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD05.1997
Skills
- Individual counseling
- Crisis intervention
- Academic guidance
- Program development
- Student assessment
- Confidential record keeping
References
REFERENCES Bill Hummel MS/HS Principal 108 Abdor Drive Pickstown, SD 57367 605-469-5830 Debora Lucas Retired Andes Central Superintendent PO Box 169 Pickstown, SD 57367 605-469-5227 Kristen Maynard Andes Central High School Science Teacher 40 High Street Lake Andes, SD 57356 605-469-6443 Darby Krug Positive Action/PBIS Coordinator PO Box 355 Wagner, SD 57380 417-861-6489
Affiliations
South Dakota Counseling Association
Interests
- VOLUNTEER WORK
- Community Hardworkers 4-H Club Leader Present
- Wagner Football Boosters President
- Wagner Wrestling Club member
- All Tribes Fellowship volunteer meals
Timeline
High School Counselor
Wagner Community School
08.2021 - Current
Middle & High School Counselor
Andes Central School District
08.2015 - 05.2021
High School Counselor
Marty Indian School
09.2013 - 05.2015
Traffic Management Officer
114th Fighter Wing
01.2000 - Current
Middle & High School Counselor
Sioux Valley School District
02.1999 - 01.2013
Master of Science - School Counseling
South Dakota State University
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
South Dakota State University
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