Jill Lastarza chosen as NYS Master Counselor

City School District of Albany school counselor Jill Lastarza has been selected to be in the first class of NYS Master Counselors.

Lastarza is among 25 school counselors from around the state who were chosen for the program, part of the prestigious NYS Master Teacher Program, which was expanded this year to include school counselors.

The program recognizes educational leaders committed to sharing best practices, creating engaging and inspiring learning environments for all K-12 students, and supporting teacher and counselor preparation programs.

Throughout her four-year participation in the Program, Lastarza will:

• Receive a $15,000 stipend annually;
• Engage in peer mentoring and intensive content-oriented professional development opportunities throughout the academic year;
• Work closely with pre-service and early career counselors to foster a supportive environment for the next generation of school counselors; and
• Attend required regional meetings at their SUNY campus, participate in and lead several professional development sessions each year.

Lastarza joined the district in 2015 and works with students with disabilities, students who are home-schooled, students in the justice system, students in BOCES’ Cooperative Virtual Learning Academy, and students in Albany High School’s Night School, GED and Summer School programs.

She also is a Comprehensive School Threat Assessment Guidelines trainer. In addition, she is a member of the district’s crisis response team and assists schools affected by tragedy.

Congratulations on this great achievement!