School Counseling
The school counselors develop and implement a comprehensive school counseling program which helps students in three main areas: social and emotional development, academic success, and college and career readiness. School counselors provide short-term counseling for issues that get in the way of student success. School counselors also meet with students to discuss course planning at Deering and planning for the future. Here at Deering, school counselors work with students individually, in small groups, and sometimes teach in classrooms. Students are welcome to drop in to the School Counseling Office or make an appointment to meet with their school counselor.
A note from The Counseling Team
Hello Deering High School Students and Families!
Welcome to the 2024-2025 School Year! We are excited to be back this year and wanted to take time to make you aware of some changes that have occurred over the summer in the School Counseling office. Ms. Dixon and Ms. Alexis have both made the decision to move on from DHS to pursue other opportunities. We are currently reviewing applications and interviewing prospective candidates to replace them. But with school starting soon, we wanted to not only notify you of the change, but also provide contact information in the interim until our new counselors join us. We have adjusted Infinite Campus to temporarily reassign all students to either Ms. Medeiros, Mr. Kennedy or Ms. Watts. You should be able to view these changes and can contact your counselor as needed.
Book An Appointment With Your Counselor
Laurie Medeiros - Co-Director of School counseling office
Laurie Medeiros has enjoyed being a School Counselor in Maine since 2009. While she is new to Deering High School in 2023, she has been working across town at Portland High School since 2019 and she's delighted to continue to serve the Portland community. Laurie received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Theater and Creative Writing from Hampshire College and her Master of Science in Counseling from the University of Southern Maine. In her past roles she's also been a School Counseling Department Director and a co-leader of Civil Rights and GSA teams. Laurie believes that ALL students deserve support in their education and in planning for their future, and she is excited to help students work toward their goals. Outside of school Laurie enjoys being with her children, writing and reading, and spending time outdoors.
Shawn Kennedy - CO-DIRECTOR OF SCHOOL COUNSELING OFFICE
Shawn Kennedy recently moved to the Portland area from New Hampshire where he worked in education as a School Counselor since 2014. Shawn graduated from Keene State College in New Hampshire with a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Social Studies Education and a Master’s Degree in School Counseling. After spending the last year at home with his children, Shawn is excited to join the Deering High School Counseling staff to assist the students of Deering on their journey through high school and preparing for life beyond. When not in school working with students, Shawn enjoys cooking, reading, the NFL season and going to the beach with his family.
aley watts - School counselor
Aley Watts joined Deering in 2022-2023 but is not new to Portland Public Schools. In 2013-2014 she coordinated the Make It Happen Program for the Portland middle schools and also completed her counseling practicum and internship with PPS. She received a Masters of Science in Counselor Education from the University of Southern Maine in 2020 and is a certified school counselor. She has over a decade of experience working with youth and most recently worked as a school counselor for Lewiston Public Schools from 2020-2022. She is thrilled to be working in her home community again and is excited to build relationships with students and support their academic, social, and emotional needs. Aley loves spending time outside with her family. Hiking, surfing and backcountry snowboarding are some of her favorite activities.
Hannah Ryde - interim School counselor
During Aley Watts' leave, we have temporary counselor support for high school students with last names O-Z. Hannah Ryde is available Thursdays and Fridays.
COLLEEN DEMERS - School counselor
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Colleen Demers joined the Deering High School staff in the fall of 2024. Colleen has over twenty years of experience working with students and families in schools and mental health agencies. She spent many years providing in-home and community therapy, and also worked as a specialized eating disorder therapist. Colleen received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Sociology from the University of Vermont and a Master of Science in Counseling from the University of Southern Maine. Colleen spent one year of college abroad attending University College Cork in Cork, Ireland. She is a certified school counselor and a licensed clinical professional counselor. Colleen is excited to be a part of the Deering community and to make connections with students and staff. Outside of school, Colleen enjoys spending time with her family, being out in the fresh air, going to the beach, exploring Maine, traveling, baking, and enjoying the food culture of the Portland area.
School Counseling Administrative Assistant
LIZ DAVENPORT - School Counseling Administrative Assistant
As the administrative assistant in the Counseling Office, Liz Davenport plays a pivotal role in supporting our students and staff at Deering High School. She is also the social media coordinator for all DHS. With a diverse background in photography, marketing, and local business support, she brings a unique perspective to the school. Having traveled the world as a documentary photographer, Liz understands the importance of a well-rounded education and actively supports our educational programs. Her management expertise from running a successful business further enhances her contributions to the school community. She is passionate about helping students and staff, the general organization of office functions and events. Liz takes immense pride in celebrating the outstanding achievements of Deering High School and is committed to fostering a positive and enriching environment for all.