New long term guidance counselor substitute Cindy Nelson has settled into Algonquin and is excited to embrace and welcome all students into her safe space.

After working as a guidance counselor in Ohio for 13 years, Nelson moved to Massachusetts where she began working at Gibbons Middle School in Westborough. After her experience with Gibbons, she worked at numerous high schools, which were all significantly smaller than Algonquin. Still, no matter the size, according to Nelson, all schools require adjustment.

“Every school does things differently, so [I’ve been] learning what the school policies are here, learning what the curriculum is here and figuring out the teachers and all the administrators and all the new people,” Nelson said. “Figuring out how Algonquin does things and the curriculums and policies has been the biggest challenge.”

Even with the struggles of adapting into a new school and getting used to a bigger working environment with more students to handle, Nelson has already found success.

“I think everyone, all the students and all the staff, have been very helpful and welcoming so it’s been a good start to the year,” Nelson said.

Nelson said that a key part of adjusting to a new school is asking for clarification and support.

“As I’ve grown in my career, I’ve gotten more comfortable with asking for help when I need it, and asking those questions [is important],” Nelson said.

Asking questions is something Nelson has been practicing for years, for her own growth and to help her students. Lisa Connery, head of the Guidance department, acknowledged this about her.

“Even in her interview she was asking good questions about Algonquin and our students and how we do things at Algonquin,” Connery said. 

Right off the bat Nelson impressed Connery with her calm nature and years of experience.

“There was that confidence as we were interviewing her and she was answering those questions, you could see that experience and that confidence really came through her calm demeanor as she was sharing different experiences with us,” Connery said.

Nelson’s positive attitude and bright personality have made an impact on the Guidance department.

“She’s funny and she has a nice sense of humor,” Connery said. “She kind of infuses it at the right time. I think she’s fun and she’s approachable.”

Nelson does her best to be approachable, supportive and available for any student that may need to pop in. 

“I’m trying to meet the students where they are at and create a safe space where they feel like they can go and get the help that they need,” Nelson said. “In general I’m helping to advocate for them.”

Nelson also wants to help students be independent.

“I help them learn how to advocate for themselves but then when they’re maybe not in a space where they can, I’m able to be that advocate for them,” Nelson said.

Nelson wants students to know that if they need help the sooner they come to her, the better, and her office is open for everyone, no matter the need.

“My doors are open so if students have a question or need something don’t hesitate to come down and ask for some help,” Nelson said. “It’s never a bother or a burden. That’s what I’m here to do and I enjoy helping students.”