HOOVER'S COUNSELING DEPARTMENT CONSISTS OF DEDICATED EDUCATIONAL PROFESSIONALS

With over 100 years of combined experience, we use our knowledge of data analysis, helping skills, human development, mental health, consultation, and advocacy to positively impact the Hoover community as agents of empowerment and change.

 
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DEBBIE VELASQUEZ

Resource Counselor (Department Chair) & 504 Coordinator

I am excited to be at Hoover and strive to learn and grow professionally as a Middle School Counselor.

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Educational/Professional Experience:  I grew up in Michigan and went to Michigan State University where I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish with a minor in Psychology. I taught secondary Spanish in North Carolina and Virginia before coming to MCPS in 2001 where I taught at Francis Scott Key Middle School and the Regional Institute for Children and Adolescents (RICA).   I obtained a Master’s in School Counseling at Johns Hopkins University and started my counseling career at Northwest High School in 2011. I then went to Northwood High School where I served as a School Counselor for ESOL Students for 6 years. I came to Hoover in 2018.


Professional Interests: Elementary-to-Middle School transition, time management skills, mindfulness activities, positive self-image, healthy friendships.  

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Personal Background:  I enjoy spending time with my family which includes my husband and two teenage boys.  We also recently welcomed Lucy, our shih tzu/chihuahua mix, into our home!  Other interests include travelling, going to the beach, reading, gardening, watching Netflix, and going to the movies.