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 Guidance Office or make an appointment to meet with their school counselor.

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Director of School Counseling

Asia Alexis - Director of School Counseling

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Asia Alexis has been working at Deering since 2018. She completed a Bachelor of Social Work at the University of Southern Maine and a Master of Education in Counseling Psychology at Boston University. Asia is currently certified as a school counselor in both Maine and Massachusetts. Asia grew up in central Maine and was called to Deering after doing her graduate internship here. She is passionate about helping students access an equitable public education and supporting students with their social emotional wellness and post-secondary journey. She enjoys her time outside of work hiking, gardening, raising her chickens, and most of all, traveling with her two children.

Guidance Secretary

LiZ DAVENPORT - Guidance Secretary

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As the secretary 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.

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A-E School Counselor

Laurie Medeiros - A-E School Counselor

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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.

F-K School Counselor

Shawn Kennedy - F-K School Counselor

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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.

L-N School Counselor

Leah Dixon - L-N School Counselor

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Leah Dixon joined Deering’s school counseling team in 2022, where she is excited to continue working with students. She has been coordinating the Make it Happen program at Deering since 2019 while pursuing an online Master of Science of Education in School Counseling degree, and is eager to transition to serving Deering students via the guidance office. Leah is passionate about supporting students with their academic and social-emotional needs, and is particularly experienced in helping students with postsecondary planning. She is thrilled to continue connecting with and supporting the Deering community as a school counselor!

O-Z School Counselor

aley watts - o-z School Counselor

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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.

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School Counseling

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Contact the Guidance Office

Director of School Counseling

Asia Alexis - Director of School Counseling

Guidance Secretary

LiZ DAVENPORT - Guidance Secretary

Book An Appointment With Your Counselor

A-E School Counselor

Laurie Medeiros - A-E School Counselor

F-K School Counselor

Shawn Kennedy - F-K School Counselor

L-N School Counselor

Leah Dixon - L-N School Counselor

O-Z School Counselor

aley watts - o-z School Counselor