Kerri Travis
Preventive Caseworker, Hamilton County Department of Social Services
Kerri works with our students and families through the C.H.O.I.C.E.S. program, connecting them with vital services, supporting them in reaching their goals, and facilitating communication between the school and service providers. C.H.O.I.C.E.S. stands for Creating Hope, Optimism & Inspiration while Championing Education & Safety, and Kerri embodies this mission in her work.
Kerri has been working with the school through DSS since September 2023. "It's a joy to visit Long Lake CSD each week!" she shares. "The strong sense of community and the clear dedication to putting students first is evident in everything the faculty and staff do."
When asked about her unique way of connecting with students, Kerri emphasized the power of a smile and finding common ground. "It might not be unique," she says, "but I always make sure to greet students with a smile. Finding something we have in common, whether it's a favorite color or that we're both the youngest sibling, is a great way to build a connection."
Outside of her work, Kerri enjoys reading, walking, downhill skiing, kayaking, and traveling. Above all, she cherishes time spent with her family.
Kerri also shared a humorous anecdote about the students she works with. "I always find it funny when a student asks my age and I have them guess," she chuckled. "Thankfully, I have a good sense of humor about some of their answers!"
And if Kerri could have any superpower for a day? "Time travel!" she exclaimed.
Evangline Wells
Licensed Master Social Worker
I love being at Long Lake School! I am always so impressed by the level of connectedness here. The school, teachers, and the community really go above and beyond to make sure every student feels accepted, included, empowered, and supported in being successful. I also love the fun that is incorporated into the day and the extra silliness on days like Halloween and Pirate Day! I was so happy I got to work here on Halloween this year! (I was a witch!)
"I love my job and am so grateful to work with all ages, but kids are my favorite!" she says. "I like to incorporate activities into our sessions, like sand tray therapy, art, or games." In her free time, Evangeline enjoys skiing with her family, traveling, and spending time outdoors. And, of course, there's Teddy, her beloved Corgi. "I'm hoping to get him certified as a therapy dog so maybe one day he can come to school with me, but he's also very naughty, so he may fail therapy dog school!"
What's the funniest thing a student has said to her? That is a tossup between "your breff stinks" and "Wow! Mrs. Wells, you look WAY better than you did yesterday!" I'm still not sure how to take that!
If she could have any superpower for a day? "I'm a chronic over-analyzer and get paralyzed by all the options!" she confessed. "I probably should wish for the ability to make quick decisions!"
Evangeline shared a key quote from Brenna Hicks (Play Therapy Parenting Podcast) on validating children's feelings: "Acknowledge their feelings without lecturing, advising, or questioning. Saying 'You're feeling [this way]' helps them feel seen, heard, and understood, which aids emotional regulation."
Maygan Robinson
Preventive Caseworker, Hamilton County Department of Social Services
Maygan works with students and families through the C.H.O.I.C.E.S. program, providing vital support, connecting them with necessary services, helping them achieve their goals, and facilitating communication between schools and service providers. C.H.O.I.C.E.S. stands for Creating Hope, Optimism & Inspiration while Championing Education & Safety – a perfect reflection of Maygan's dedication.
Maygan has been a part of the Long Lake CSD community for about six months. "The best part of being here," she shares, "is the kindness and welcoming spirit of everyone. It creates such a strong, supportive community for our students."
When asked about how she connects with students, Maygan explained, "I like to let them take the lead in how we spend our time together. It empowers them and helps build a stronger rapport."
In her free time, Maygan enjoys reading, playing with her dog, and exploring the outdoors through hiking, kayaking, and other activities.
And if she could have any superpower for a day? "Teleportation!" she exclaimed. "Imagine being able to go anywhere, anytime – that would be amazing!"
5 Valentine's Day Math Activities
Adirondack Foundation and Adirondack Birth to Three Alliance
Mindful Activities
Heartbeat Exercise: As your students monitor their heartbeat and breathing after exercise, they’ll learn to become mindful of how their body feels.
Pinwheel Breathing: This exercise helps students practice deep breaths by using a pinwheel to show them how.
Mindful Glitter Jar: This adorable craft can give students a visual example of how their thoughts settle down after practicing mindfulness.
