Ms. Loretta Speller, Midlo’s School Counseling Coordinator and the Dual Enrollment Coordinator, was recently awarded the 2021 November Employee of the Month Award for constantly putting forth her best effort. 

From a young age, Speller looked up to her mother, a kindergarten teacher for over twenty years, who led her to realize that her dream job was in education. As the years went on, Speller was constantly in the classroom volunteering. In her spare time, she tutored younger students, read to kindergartners and decorated bulletin boards in classrooms.

Fueled by her passion for education, Speller attended Virginia State University as an English major with a concentration in Education and Mass Communications. Eventually, she went back to VSU and received her Master of Education in School Counseling.

Now, Speller helps the school run by supporting students emotionally, socially, and academically. Most of her day is spent counseling students, while also enhancing students’ life skills, such as time management and communication. Additionally, she has spearheaded Wellness Wednesdays, providing mental health awareness to Midlo. In addition, Speller continuously guides students through their post-graduation plans as they apply for scholarships and jobs. 

Speller describes receiving the Employee of the Month Award as “a reflection of the hard work the entire School Counseling Department does. It means that our efforts to advocate and help students is working and appreciated.”

Congratulations, Ms. Speller!