Suffolk Public Schools is proud to announce that Hillpoint Elementary School and Col. Fred Cherry Middle School have received prestigious recognition from the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) for their outstanding school counseling programs.

Hillpoint Elementary has been named a Virginia School Counseling Showcase School, while Col. Fred Cherry Middle School has been chosen as a Model Comprehensive School Counseling Program site, the only middle school in Virginia to receive this recognition this year.

As part of these honors, both schools are now included on a statewide list of exemplary programs, giving school counselors across the Commonwealth an opportunity to visit and learn from their innovative and student-centered counseling practices. Site visits will be coordinated through each school’s counseling team and our Suffolk Public Schools’ central office.

“Being named a Showcase School affirms the incredible work our counselors do every day,” said Dr. Shaka Miller, proud Principal of Hillpoint Elementary School. “We are honored to open our doors to colleagues across Virginia and share how we prioritize the whole child through a comprehensive school counseling program.”

“Being selected as Virginia’s only middle school Model Comprehensive Program site this year is a tremendous honor,” said Dr. Janet Wright-Davis. “Our school counselors have worked to create a safe, supportive environment where students can thrive. This recognition provides an opportunity to share what works and inspire other schools.”

“This recognition is a testament to our schools’ commitment to supporting the whole child,” said Dr. John B. Gordon III, Superintendent of Suffolk Public Schools. “Both schools’ counseling team works tirelessly to ensure students feel safe, supported, and empowered to succeed. We are proud to have their efforts highlighted on a statewide stage.”

In addition to this recognition, Hillpoint Elementary School and Col. Fred Cherry Middle School will receive a certificate of recognition and a special care package as a token of appreciation for their dedication.

As part of this forward-thinking work, Suffolk Public Schools has also taken steps to reflect the evolving role of school counselors by moving from terms like “guidance” to “school counseling.” This small but significant change helps families and community members better understand the full scope of services school counselors provide today.

Congratulations to the Hillpoint Elementary School and Col. Fred Cherry Middle school counseling teams for this incredible achievement and for their continued dedication to serving students and inspiring fellow counselors across Virginia!