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Amy Zero ('14), graduated with a master's degree in Counseling and Guidance.
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WIU Alumna Zero Named "Illinois K-8 School Counselor of the Year"

September 18, 2024

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MOLINE, IL - - Western Illinois University is proud to announce that Amy Zero, a graduate of WIU's Counselor Education program and School Counselor at Rock Island Academy, has been named the Illinois School Counselor Association's (ISCA) 2024 Illinois K-8 School Counselor of the Year.

Zero, who will be honored at the ISCA Conference in November, has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to school counseling. The award highlights her dedication to student well-being and her role in advancing the field through innovative practices.

Zero has been a key figure in reshaping the school counseling approach in the Rock Island-Milan School District (RIMSD). Over the past three years, her efforts have led to significant advancements in the district's counseling programs, which have been acknowledged at the state level. In 2023, Zero, along with a fellow RIMSD counselor, presented their work at the ISCA Conference, showcasing the district's commitment to pioneering new strategies that better serve students and their families.

This recognition marks the second consecutive year that an RIMSD counselor has been honored by ISCA, following Rock Island High School Counselor Julie Churchill's recognition as an Illinois Counselor of the Year Honoree in 2023. Zero's award underscores the district's continued excellence in providing top-tier student support services and highlights the impact of WIU's Counselor Education program in preparing leaders in the field.

For more information on WIU's Counselor Education department, visit wiu.edu/coehs/cnedcsp/.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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