National School Psychology Week graphic with blue text on a white background and curved blue-and-gold border accents.Supporting the whole student is a priority in Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) and a key part of the Elevate 2030 Strategic Plan, which emphasizes the importance of students’ physical and mental health so they can thrive.

As part of that commitment, PWCS recognizes the dedicated school psychologists who support students and families across the division during National School Psychology Week, November 9-13, 2026.

One of the many ways school psychologists support students is through school-based mental health services, which are supports offered to students during the school day to help them manage challenges that affect their well-being and ability to learn.

“When a student is experiencing anxiety, stress, grief, or difficulties with relationships, it can be hard to focus on academics,” said Kristen Garcia, a school psychologist at Fred M. Lynn Middle School. “Having support available at school allows us to identify concerns early, build important coping skills, and help students succeed."

School-based mental health services can take many forms depending on a student's needs and age. Support may include counseling, social-emotional skill development, check-ins, crisis response, collaboration with families and staff, and connections to additional resources when needed.

Shannon Welteroth, school psychologist at Battlefield High School, explained that school-based mental health services are unique because the support happens where students learn, with a focus on how their social-emotional and behavioral needs may affect their education.

“By addressing those needs during the school day, we can help remove barriers to learning and give students the support they need to engage in instruction, build coping skills, and succeed academically.”

For younger students, that support often begins with strong relationships and collaboration among the adults who work with them each day.

"At the preschool level, supporting students starts with collaboration and strong relationships," said Nicole Gervinski, school psychologist at Washington Reid Preschool Center and Bennett Elementary School. "Young children may not always be able to tell us when they're struggling, so we rely on strong partnerships with teachers and staff to identify needs early and help ensure every student has the support they need to succeed."

That early support can make a meaningful difference for students, particularly when challenges begin to affect their ability to learn, connect with others, or even come to school.

Gabrielle Gordon, a school psychologist at Martin Luther King Jr. and Springwoods Elementary Schools, recalled working with a student who experienced significant anxiety related to academics and peer relationships. The student frequently avoided school, struggled to complete assignments, and often withdrew from others.

Working alongside the student, Gordon identified sources of stress, developed a personalized support plan, taught coping strategies, and helped create a safe and trusting environment at school. Over time, the student's attendance improved, relationships with peers strengthened, and academic performance increased.

Experiences like these highlight the difference school psychologists can make in the lives of students.

"I've learned the importance of consistently showing up for students," Gordon said. "When students feel heard, valued, and respected, they're more comfortable seeking support when they need it most and navigating challenges and setbacks."

As PWCS celebrates National School Psychology Week, the division recognizes the expertise, compassion, and dedication of the school psychologists who support students and help them succeed both in and out of the classroom.