Outstanding School Counselors Recognized as 2025–2026 District Honorees
Outstanding School Counselors Recognized as 2025–2026 District Honorees
This year, the Calcasieu Parish School Board proudly celebrates three school counselors whose care, commitment, and leadership support the success and well-being of students every day. This year’s district-level Counselor of the Year honorees are Karen Sullivan from Nelson Elementary School, Angela Celestine from S.J. Welsh Middle School, and Hope Berry from Iowa High School.
“School counselors are essential to the well-being and success of our students,” said Superintendent Dr. Jason VanMetre. “They listen, encourage, guide, and support every child who walks through our doors. These three counselors lead with compassion and professionalism, and we are proud to recognize them for the positive impact they make each day in their schools and in the lives of our families.”
Karen Sullivan – A.A. Nelson Elementary School
Elementary Counselor of the Year
Karen Sullivan has served as a school counselor for nearly five years and is honored to be part of the Nelson Elementary family. Her work is rooted in helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally, while building meaningful relationships throughout the school community. Sullivan shares that her faith and family are central to who she is, and she is grateful for the love and support of her husband, Justin, and their children, Sutton and Leighton. She is deeply thankful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of students and families each day.
Angela Celestine – S.J. Welsh Middle School
Middle School Counselor of the Year, Overall District Counselor of the Year
A 26-year educator and the current 8th grade counselor at S.J. Welsh Middle School, Angela Celestine has dedicated her career to empowering students to reach their fullest potential. She is passionate about breaking down barriers to learning and ensuring that every child feels seen, heard, supported, and capable of success. Known for her genuine care for others, Celestine strives to leave a lasting, positive impact on her students, colleagues, and the community she serves.
Hope Berry – Iowa High School
High School Counselor of the Year
Hope Berry transitioned into the counseling field in 2021 after a 20-year career as an Agriscience teacher at Bell City High School. In her role at Iowa High School, she helps students discover their strengths, understand how they learn, and plan for life beyond high school. Her philosophy is influenced by the belief that differences are not deficiencies and that every student has unique strengths on which they can build a meaningful future.
These three outstanding counselors exemplify the dedication, care, and student-centered approach that define the Calcasieu Parish School Board. The district is proud to have Sullivan, Celestine, and Berry represent Calcasieu Parish as the 2025–2026 Counselors of the Year.