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Meet our School Counselors
Hi! My name is Sholanda L. Smith. I graduated from Spelman College (Psychology) and completed Master degrees, at Grand Canyon University (Special Education) and Ottawa University (School Counseling). I began my teaching career, in the Cartwright district, at Marc T. Atkinson Middle School. I also taught at Desert Sands Middle School, in the Cartwright district. Prior to coming to Canyon View High School, I taught at Valley Vista High School, in the Dysart district. I am excited to transition from the classroom, after 9 years of teaching, into school counseling, so that I can be a part of a global impact. I am beyond blessed to be able to begin my school counseling career, at Canyon View High School (Go Jags!)!I am from the Peach State (Georgia), by way of Arkansas. I love living in Arizona. I spend time with my husband and children, visit local libraries (my first job was in a library!), museums, and historical sites, as well as go to the gym and hike. I also very much enjoy traveling, beaches, good food, and reading. My goal, as a counselor, is to empower students to design an individualized journey that addresses their socio-emotional and academic development, as well as ensure that every student receives comprehensive and personalized strategies that enable them to be college and career ready.Hello My name is Melanie Colín. I was raised most of my educational years in Avondale, Arizona. I am an Agua Fria High School alumni. While attending Ottawa University, I started my career, in education, as the Home School Liaison, for the Agua Fria Union High School District. I found my passion in working with high school students and parents and have now served, in the district, for 15 years. Prior to Canyon View High School, I counseled at Verrado High School. I am looking forward to my 13th year in high school counseling! My goal, as a high school counselor, is to develop students into holistic individuals, who are equipped to serve themselves, their families, their community, and the world.
Furthermore, I am one of the rare individual who enjoys our Arizona heat. I am a true desert rat! Time flies, when I am in the company of families and friends, over a delicious meal; and my heart sings, when I'm listening to fun music and dancing. Living a balanced life is very important to me. Most days, outside of work, I am at the gym, reading a book, meditating, and working on a new challenge or personal project. I feel fortunate and grateful for my career in school counseling. Leading the Counseling Department, at Canyon View High School, is an honor.