IMPACT Grant Candidate Spotlight
Read about a new candidate for this grant each month. Discover what motivates them to enter this field and the passion they bring to become a licensed school counselor.
The Lipscomb University School Counseling program proudly highlights Kaylee Calderon. Kaylee serves as a Job-embedded School Counselor K-5 at Stewartsboro Elementary, bringing a rich educational background that includes a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California State University, Fullerton, and a Master of Education in Elementary Education from Grand Canyon University.
Kaylee's passion for school counseling stems from her deep love of working with children and her belief in their potential. Early in her career, while providing behavior modification services through the Wraparound program, a wise mentor shared a perspective that has guided Kaylee's work ever since: that these children are our future leaders and will be the community for our own children. This philosophy drives Kaylee to value each child she works with as her own, providing them with the loving, supportive adult presence they need to develop the skills necessary for success.
Kaylee brings a rich tapestry of experiences to her role as a school counselor, including working with foster and probation youth, serving as an elementary educator, and experience in higher education. These diverse professional experiences, combined with her roles as a mother and wife, have equipped her with patience, joy, and strong teamwork skills. Her experiences in these positions have given her various lenses to approach students, families, and staff with empathy and understanding. She approaches her work with gratitude and faith, striving to be a light in the lives of those she serves.
"This program has been the best blessing! I never thought I would be able to become a school counselor and without this program, it would not have been possible. I love what I get to do and the impact I get to make with the students and school community at Stewartsboro. This opportunity has been truly life-changing for me and my family." — Kaylee Calderon
When she's not at school, Kaylee enjoys spending quality time with her family and tackling home improvement projects that involve woodworking. She also loves to bake and is looking forward to developing her gardening skills. Through her comprehensive background and heartfelt commitment to student success, Kaylee is well-positioned to address the mental health needs of students and make a lasting impact in the Stewartsboro Elementary community.