A Message From Your ISD 518 School Counselors – Here to Support All Students, Families, and Staff

Independent School District 518 Students and Families,


We have all been dealing with the additional stress and changes since the COVID-19 pandemic began eight months ago.  During the past eight months, our country has also suffered from racial unrest and political turmoil.  All of these things have taken a huge toll on our mental health.  

As your school counselors’ our job is to help during times of stress and anxiety.  We believe it is important to acknowledge the many challenges we are currently facing in our lives.  Many of us are feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed and stressed. Despite all of this, we can make it through this together.  We, as your counselors, want to be able to support you and have conversations about healthy ways to cope with these feelings.  Please reach out and talk with a trusted individual in your life.  

Regardless of your political beliefs, socioeconomic background, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, religion and other factors, it is important to have empathy and treat others with respect and dignity.  Students or families may differ in a wide variety of ways, whether it is in regards to what they value or how they live their lives.  However, whether it is in the classroom, on the field, in church, or just across the streets in your neighborhood, we all should value and respect each other’s right to live.

Your school counselors are here to support all students, families and staff.  No matter what changes come along, nothing will change our commitment to you!


Your ISD 518 School Counselors,

Prairie Elementary:                  Maggie Gerdes (507-727-1250 ext.5035) & Laurie Knudson (507-727-1274)

Worthington Middle School:  Carrie Adams (507-727-1180) & Carly Duffy (507-727-1112)

Worthington High School:      Jesse Nitzschke (507-727-1141), Dan Schnelle (507-727-1135) & Lakeyta Swinea (507-727-1134)

Learning Center:                     Jami Wahl (507-372-1322)

Share This...