Mrs. Emily Backes
School Counselor for Middle School Students, Last Names A-K
Hello Wildcats!
I am so happy to be back as School Counselor for 7th and 8th grade! This year, I will be working with students whose last names begin with the letters A-K. I started my educational career at this campus 18 years ago. Since that time, I have worn many hats at the Schools of McKeel Academy. I taught 8th grade Integrated Research, MS and HS Chorus, Elementary Music at MAC, and 7th Grade Language Arts and Leadership at SMA. We are also a Wildcat Family! My husband works at MAC and both of our daughters are graduates of MAT. I am a Wildcat through and through! I earned my Bachelor of Science and my Masters in Educational Leadership at Southeastern University, but my learning and education didn't stop there. I learn new things every single day. I am a lifelong learner and I hope to pass along my love for learning to all of you!
If you need to set up an appointment with me, please email emilybackes@mckeelschools.com or call 499-2818 ext. 226.
Have a great year!!
Mrs. Jennifer Stiverson
School Counselor for Middle School Students, Last Names L-Z
I'm a Lakeland native and am happy to be teaching in this great community in which I grew up! I earned my bachelor's degree from Southeastern University in 2006 and began teaching in 2007. I taught third grade for 8 years and started a new adventure teaching 5th grade a few years ago. I absolutely love teaching 5th! I feel truly blessed to be teaching at such an amazing school! In my class we are like family and I believe growing character is just as important as growing academically.
Mrs. Christina Pynes
School Counselor for High School Students, Last Names A-K
Hello Wildcats!
This is my eleventh year as a School Counselor at McKeel Academy and my 17th year in the field of education. Prior to being a counselor, I was in the classroom and taught first and fourth grades. This year, I have the pleasure of working with students with the last names A through K, in grades 9th through 12th.
Some information about me...
I attended the University of South Florida for both my Bachelor's and Master's degrees. My degrees are in Elementary Education and Counselor Education. I hold professional certificates for Guidance And Counseling as well as Elementary Education. I am also ESOL endorsed.
If you would like to set up an appointment with me concerning your student, please feel free to contact me by phone at 499-2818, extension 235 or via email at the link listed below.
I look forward to a wonderful year working with you and your student!
Mrs. Sandy Mathieu
School Counselor for High School Students, Last Names L-Z
Greetings Wildcat Family!
My name is Sandy Mathieu and I will be your school counselor. I am honored to be a part of this great team. I have been a school counselor for over ten years. I graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor's Degree in Criminology and a Masters in Counselor Education. I have served as a Family Support Worker as well as taught and counseled in Elementary and Middle School.
I will be working with students from 9th-12thgrade with the last names from L-Z. I look forward to serving the students, parents and staff at McKeel Academy.
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