Lauren Balcaceres, School Counselor

Originally from Southern California, I am a true fan of the Bay Area, and even more so to San Jose. I love serving the same community that I live in, and love to learn about the vast richness that San Jose, and the surrounding areas have to offer. On any weekend you may find me at the local park with my two children, eating out at the local restaurants, hiking trails, running, and visiting my favorite beach spot, Natural Bridges. I am the product of strong values and the belief that education is for life. I have worked in various settings that include behavioral therapy, after school programs, summer camps, and as a preschool director. However, no role has been as satisfying than as a school counselor. 

As the school counselor, I remind students that everything they need is inside of them, and it starts by believing in oneself. Coping and social skills, grief and loss, unplanned changes, organization, anger management, bullying, attention and set backs, are just a few challenges that students may face. I stive to be a dependable guiding voice for students to help them navigate through the ups and downs of life, so that they can get back to focusing on their education. Every student has the potential to be goal oriented and unstopable in reaching their dreams!