MANCHESTER – When McLaughlin Middle School Principal Kelly Williams radioed to 7th Grade Counselor Courtney Menswar asking for assistance in the gym, Menswar came running. When she got there, instead of any sort of emergency, she found a celebration under way … and she was the guest of honor.
Menswar was named the New Hampshire School Counselor of the Year in front of the entire 7th Grade class as well as her family seated in the front row. She said she was shocked to learn she’d won.
"I am incredibly humbled to be named School Counselor of the Year,” Menswar said. “It's a true privilege to support and guide middle school students during such a pivotal time in their lives. I love my job and feel fortunate to make a positive impact on the people I work with each day. This award is a reflection of the amazing students and staff I get to work with, and I am truly thankful for the opportunity to serve."
Menswar has served in Manchester School District for 14 years, with the last four as a school counselor. The award is presented annually by the New Hampshire School Counselor Association; in addition to the award presentation on Friday, Menswar will be honored at the Excellence in Education Awards ceremony in June.
“Courtney’s impact on her students and school community is immeasurable,” said Colleen DesRuisseaux of the NH School Counselor Association. “Her ability to connect with middle schools and provide them with the support they need is truly inspiring. She is a role model for school counselors across the state.”
In its announcement, the association noted that Menswar’s colleagues describe her as kind, compassionate and dedicated, with a unique ability to make students feel seen, heard and valued. Principal Williams agreed with the sentiment.
“We are very lucky to have her here working with our kids,” she said. “Her hard work, dedication, knowledge of students and connections is such a joy to see. Congratulations to Courtney on this wonderful achievement!”
Superintendent Jennifer Chmiel was among those in attendance for the award presentation on Friday, said that as a parade of students and colleagues approached Menswar to congratulate her, one thing became clear: She had truly found her place.
“It’s heart-warming to me to see when one of our staff members really finds their niche,” Chmiel said. “It’s a combination of the right person being in the right place at the right time. You can see on the faces of the students and her colleagues the impact that she’s had at McLaughlin, but you can also see the impact the school has had on her. We are absolutely thrilled for her and hope you’ll join us in congratulating her.”