Jennifer Miller
Medford
Summary
Dynamic school-based mental health professional and School Adjustment Counselor with a proven track record of supporting Pre K–8 students in diverse educational settings. Expertise in integrating drama with social-emotional learning, restorative practices, and crisis support, backed by a strong background in drama and theatre education that fosters creativity and resilience. Committed to cultivating inclusive environments that promote student well-being and academic success through innovative, arts-based wellness initiatives. Passionate about empowering young minds to navigate challenges and thrive socially and emotionally, driving positive change within the school community.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Drama & Theatre Teacher (PreK–8)
Winter Hill Community Innovation School
Somerville, MA
01.2022 - Current
- Guided Pre K-8 students in drama activities, promoting confidence, collaboration, and individual expression.
- Developed and executed performance-based learning initiatives tailored to support diverse learning needs within student-centered classrooms.
- Coordinated school-wide events showcasing student talent, promoting community involvement in the arts.
- Facilitated collaborative performances, enhancing teamwork and communication skills among students.
- Integrated technology into lessons, enhancing learning experiences and accessibility for diverse learners.
Redirect Counselor(Dean) / Behavioral Support Specialist
Winter Hill Community Innovation School
Somerville, MA
01.2017 - 01.2022
- Applied restorative and trauma-informed methodologies to effectively address behavioral and emotional challenges.
- Facilitated partnerships among families, teachers, and administrators to promote effective strategies for managing student behavior and attendance.
- Implemented school-wide programs focused on mental health awareness and resilience-building strategies.
- Provided crisis intervention services, ensuring immediate support for students in distressful situations.
- Trained staff on best practices for recognizing signs of mental health issues among students.
- Implemented behavioral modification strategies to help clients develop healthier coping mechanisms.
- Designed culturally-sensitive interventions tailored to each client''s background and experiences.
- Led staff development workshops focusing on innovative teaching strategies and best practices.
School Adjustment Counselor
Somerville Public Schools
Winter Hill School
09.2014 - 06.2017
- Developed individualized counseling plans for students facing academic and emotional challenges.
- Facilitated conflict resolution sessions among students to promote positive peer interactions.
- Continuously expanded professional knowledge by attending conferences, workshops, and seminars related to the field of school counseling and mental health.
- Implemented school-wide mental health awareness programs to foster a supportive environment.
- Led professional development workshops for staff on mental health issues and support strategies.
- Developed strong rapport with both students and staff members by consistently demonstrating empathy, professionalism, and adaptability in challenging situations.
- Developed comprehensive intervention plans for students experiencing academic, social, or emotional difficulties, leading to improved performance and wellbeing.
Site Coordinator
Community After School Program
Somerville, MA
09.2010 - 06.2014
- Coordinated daily operations of after-school programs to ensure alignment with educational goals.
- Developed and implemented engaging curriculum activities to enhance student learning experiences.
- Trained and mentored staff members on program policies and best practices for effective service delivery.
- Managed schedules and logistics for program events, fostering community engagement and participation.
- Collaborated with parents and local organizations to address student needs and promote program initiatives.
- Established partnerships with community stakeholders to expand resources and support for students' development.
- Promoted a culture of continuous improvement within the team, encouraging input from all members for process optimization purposes.
- Maintained a safe and productive work environment by enforcing strict adherence to safety guidelines, promptly addressing any hazards or non-compliance incidents.
- Supervised crew of over 5 employees.
Education
Master of Education - School Adjustment Counseling / Mental Health Counseling
Cambridge College
Cambridge, MA01.2014
Bachelor of Arts - Educational Studies & Theatre Arts
Salem State University
Salem, MA 01.2008
Skills
- School counseling expertise
- Social-emotional development
- Conflict resolution through restorative methods
- Behavioral de-escalation techniques
- Special education collaboration
- Trauma-informed teaching methods
- Performing arts education background
- Arts-based emotional development
- Comprehensive student support
- Acting methodologies
- Playwriting instruction
- Reader's theatre
Accomplishments
- I advocated and got a new middle school theatre model that allows for a performance class for middle school
- I worked with the district to make restorative practices as an intervention for our k-12 schools.
Certification
- Restorative Justice Training, Tiers 1, 2, & 3 — Suffolk University
- Certification in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) — Melmark, 2005
- Crisis Intervention & De-escalation (School-Based)
- Trauma-Informed Educational Practices
- Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Integration
- Yoga For Classrooms
- Mindful Schools
Languages
Spanish
Limited Working
Timeline
Drama & Theatre Teacher (PreK–8)
Winter Hill Community Innovation School
01.2022 - Current
Redirect Counselor(Dean) / Behavioral Support Specialist
Winter Hill Community Innovation School
01.2017 - 01.2022
School Adjustment Counselor
Somerville Public Schools
09.2014 - 06.2017
Site Coordinator
Community After School Program
09.2010 - 06.2014
Master of Education - School Adjustment Counseling / Mental Health Counseling
Cambridge College
Bachelor of Arts - Educational Studies & Theatre Arts
Salem State University
PROFESSIONAL PHILOSOPHY
I believe schools are strongest when mental health, creativity, and structure work together to create safe, supportive spaces where students can grow.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Experience working in urban public school settings
- Strong collaboration with educators, administrators, families, and community partners
- Committed to equity, inclusion, and student-centered practice.