Earlier this year, a beloved guidance counselor and well-respected faculty member, Scott Griffith, retired from Old Rochester Regional High School.
During a busy time earlier in the school year when students were still changing class levels, Lisa Shields took over the vacant guidance position. Currently, Ms. Shields and the guidance staff are working on next year’s course selection for students.
Shields took over for Griffith at the beginning of October, and immediately enjoyed ORR’s atmosphere.
“It was busy, as you can imagine,” said Shields about her transition. “It’s gone really well in terms of getting to know the students and staff.”
Shields has been enjoying the new experience, saying, “In my job, you never have the same day twice.”
Shields spoke about her past occupations and her experience finding this new position.
“[I used] a website called ‘School Spring.’ I happened to be looking for a new guidance position, and ORR was looking for a new guidance counselor, and I landed here,” said Shields. “I had my first guidance job at Sandwich High School and for the past eight years, I worked at Wareham High School.”
Shields attended school at the University of Massachusetts Boston, where she also earned a graduate degree.
Shields outlined her goal for working with ORR’s student body.
“I hope that students find me approachable and easy to talk to. I also hope that they can talk to me about college/career issues and any other difficulties they may be having,” said Shields.
When asked to choose a favorite part of her position, Shields spoke about her privilege to see students develop in their four years of high school.
“It’s the only job I can think of where you get to see this happen,” Shields said. “The evolution of a freshman to a senior is a great process.”
Since Griffith made such a huge impact on the community at ORR with his kindness and patience, Shields had big shoes to fill coming into the school. Judging by her great attitude and hard work during the busy course selection process, it appears like Shields is a great addition to the guidance staff.
By Patrick Briand