Guidance

MICHAEL DI GIOVANNA
My name is Michael Di Giovanna and I am a full-time guidance counselor at Memorial Junior High School. I have my Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Molloy College and I received my Master’s Degree from St. John’s University in May 2001. Prior to my arrival at Valley Stream Central High School District I was a full-time teacher in the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District. I can be reached at Memorial Junior High at (516) 872-7722.

Some of my hobbies include volleyball, softball, camping, and working with others. I look forward to contributing to the future success of Valley Stream Central High School District.

MICHELE JACKSON-POWELL
Hi, my name is Michele Jackson-Powell and I am a guidance counselor at Valley Stream Memorial Junior High School. I have my undergraduate degree (Bachelor of Business Administration-Accounting) from Bernard M. Baruch College, C.U.N.Y and previously worked as an auditor in the private sector for ten years. I received my Master’s degree in Counselor Education from Queens College, C.U.N.Y. and have made an extremely rewarding career transition into school counseling here at Valley Stream Memorial Junior High School. My caseload of counselees includes grades seven through nine, usually with students of the last names D through L.

I continuously look forward to working with the students at Memorial Junior High School. These (junior high school) years can be difficult for many students. Therefore, I work tirelessly to help my students to develop positive coping skills, make responsible choices and decisions, as, well as, assist my students to use all resources to develop their full potential, including college awareness.

On a personal note, I am married with two young beautiful daughters. My family, along with my counselees, inspire me to learn more and more how to become a most effective counselor.

If you have any questions or concerns I can be reached at 872-7722. I look forward to meeting with you in the near future.

LAURA MESA

I have been a full- time guidance counselor at Valley Stream Memorial Junior High School since September 2001. I take great satisfaction in being able to contribute to our future, by collaboratively working with a group of professionals who share a common goal, to help prepare our youth for tomorrow by educating and guiding them towards a better quality of life through education. I counsel students whose last names begin with A-DEL in the 7th grade, A-DA in the 8th grade and C-G in 9th grade.

As a parent of two children, I do understand some of the challenges one could face on a day-to-day basis. My children at home and work continue to inspire me to learn and grow with them. I work diligently to help each of my counselees to succeed. I am of the opinion that every student is a unique individual and every student has potential. Education is certainly not a one - way street. Educational success requires not only the school’s input but the involvement and cooperation of the family as well.

Aside from my regular duties, I am a club advisor for the MJHS/Nassau Community College/LPP Homework Club, Board member for the Valley Stream Youth Council, member of the Positive Behavior Intervention Service Team, Facilitator and Trainer for HYLI/ New York State Legislative Committee and member of American Counseling Association and Nassau Counselor Association.

I wish to impress upon parents that I am always available for consultation or to simply discuss the center of our lives – our children. For your convenience, my telephone number is (516) 872-7722. I look forward to meeting you.

PATRICK NAGLIERI
Hello, my name is Patrick Naglieri. I received my B.S. degree in Education with a concentration in History from Adelphi University. I also received a Master’s degree in Special Education from Adelphi University, certification in School Counseling from L.I.U., and a professional diploma in Educational Administration from L.I.U.

I currently work with students in grades 7-9 and enjoy their energy and enthusiasm. I can be reached on (516) 872-7722.