Student & Family Support

Welcome to the Department of Student and Family Support!

The Student and Family Support team is committed to providing the services and programs needed to promote positive school climates while enhancing the academic, physical, social and psychological well-being of every student. Our team of school climate specialists, school social workers, school counselors, and school based mental health clinicians help students reach their full potential. We believe families and community organizations are integral to student success. We provide support to schools through targeted professional development, focusing on equity and meeting the needs of the whole child. Community based agencies are available to provide support services outside of the school such as student and family counseling, substance abuse, and assistance with basic needs. The Student and Family Support department is proud to offer a wide variety of programs and services to ensure students are fully supported in, and out, of the classroom.

Goals:

  1. Support schools to ensure all students and families feel welcomed, valued, and connected.
  2. Collaborate with all stakeholders to support students’ learning and mental health development at home and school.
  3. Ensure students are treated fairly and have access to opportunities to support success.
  4. Connect families to community services to support the physical and mental well-being of students.

CONTACTS: 

Dr. Keith Benton
Director of Student and Family Support
770-787-1330 ext. 1230

Jessica Harris
School Climate Specialist and PBIS District Coordinator
770-787-1330 ext. 1301

Chiquita Perry-Owens
School Climate Specialist - Youth Mental Health First Aid Trainer
770-787-1330 ext. 1302

Tiphanie Dean
ReThink Ed Liaison
770-787-1330 ext. 1310

Niesha Speights
School Climate Specialist, PATH Project Liaison 
770-787-1330 ext. 1288

SOCIAL WORKERS

George Hutchinson
School Social Worker
770-787-1330 ext. 4328

Yvette Zielenske
School Social Worker
770-787-1330 ext. 5586

LeTecia Ray
School Social Worker
770-787-1330 ext. 2158

Olivia King-Hinds
School Social Worker
770-787-1330 ext. 6586

Abigail Lewis
School Social Worker
770-787-1330 ext. 3131