Kim Varney Chandler of Hancock, school counselor at Fall Mountain Regional High School, was presented with the New Hampshire School Counselor of the Year Award by the New Hampshire School Counselor Association on Feb. 2 during a celebration at the school in Langdon.
The award recognizes Chandler’s nearly 30 years of service to students and her leadership in advancing comprehensive, student-centered counseling programs aligned with the ASCA National Model. Since joining Fall Mountain in 2020, she has strengthened the district’s counseling program through program alignment, annual agreements, time-on-task studies and the creation of a counseling advisory council.
Chandler has also expanded career exploration and post-secondary planning through a Career Seminar Series and annual Career Fairs, and supports students through initiatives such as animal-assisted therapy and the “Passing the Paw” program.
“Kim is an incredible advocate for students. She ensures that every student is seen, heard, and supported, while also recognizing that when educators are cared for, students benefit too,” said Principal Sarah Edmunds.