Counseling, College & Career
Welcome to the Counseling, College & Career Center at New Start High School.
Meet Your Counselor
Ms. Shauna C. Pierson
Phone: 206-631-7778
Email: shauna.pierson@highlineschools.org
Our school counselor, Ms. Shauna Pierson, works tirelessly to help New Start students reach their graduation goal. Ms. Pierson plans class schedules so students can complete all required classes. She meets individually with students to discuss their goals and dreams and helps lay out a pathway for the student follow. She also makes sure students take and pass their state-required tests in order to graduate in a timely fashion. Also communication with parents and guardians is necessary for a solid foundation in support of the student.
Ms. Pierson also works with students to explore post-graduate educational opportunities such as colleges and apprenticeships. She leads workshops on getting ready for college such as Writing your College Essay, College Applications, and Financial Aid (FAFSA& WAFSA), and Scholarships for Higher Education; and takes the initiative to meet other needs of students and families.
Students and parents are welcome to drop in to see Ms. Pierson or make an appointment via email shauna.pierson@highlineschools.org or by phone at 206-631-7778.
"Education is the foundation of all successful societies," a quote by Blanche E. Pierson, Shauna's inspiring grandmother.
Degrees and Certifications:
Bachelor's Degree: Physical Education Teacher w/Minor in Coaching
Masters Degree: Guidance & School Counseling
National Board Certified School Counselor
About Your Intern and Career Specialist
Ms. Cindy Akana
Phone: 206-631-7792
Email: cindy.akana@highlineschools.org
Our Internship and Career Preparation Specialist, Ms. Cindy Akana, works to connect students with career-based internships which will help them move towards strong-wage and high-demand careers. Some internship employers pay our students an hourly wage or stipend; but for those that can not, we draw from a YouthWorks grant to pay eligible students a $500 stipend when they complete a 90-hour internship.
Ms. Akana also organizes Career Fairs and career-based field trips where students can explore diverse career fields of interest. She believes providing students with opportunities to see what is available to them gives them more options for choosing a satisfying and strong-wage career. Ms. Akana also leads workshops to prepare students for successful interviews and teach them how to successfully navigate the current job market and career pathways.
Students are welcome to drop in to see Ms. Akana between classes or make an appointment to meet with her during lunch, advisory, or before and after school.
Degrees and Certifications:
Master of Arts, Fuller
Bachelor of Arts, SPU