Mahopac Central School District

Mahopac Central School District is celebrating the Mahopac High School School Counseling Department, which recently received the New York State School Counselor Association’s (NYSSCA) 2025 Outstanding Program, Practice or Project Award.

The award recognizes excellence in professional practice and highlights innovative programs that demonstrate a measurable positive impact on students. District leaders say the honor reflects the department’s comprehensive approach to supporting students and families as they prepare for graduation and plan for college, careers and post-secondary opportunities.

As part of the district’s strategic plan, the Mahopac High School counseling department has expanded partnerships with college admissions representatives and created multiple opportunities for students to engage with colleges through in-district visits and local mini-fairs. In addition, the department offers a wide range of programming, including college essay workshops, one-on-one junior and senior planning conferences, “Junior-Senior Class Information” website, regional college, career and trade fairs, financial aid workshops, college admissions roundtable discussions, Junior College Planning Night, and the annual Senior Class Alumni Panel, where recent graduates return to share their experiences adjusting to college life.

April Ljumic, Mahopac Central School District administrator for school counseling, expressed her gratitude for her department receiving the 2025 NYSSCA Outstanding Program, Practice or Project Award, including Anna Boyle, Marianna Callagy, Trina Capone, Julie Cummins, Terry Lauchman, Jaclyn Mittman and Peter Vanno.

“I am incredibly proud of the Mahopac High School School Counseling Department and deeply honored that we have received this award,” Ljumic said. “This prestigious recognition is a reflection of the exceptional programming, dedication, professionalism and compassion of our school counseling team. Our school counselors work tirelessly to support students academically, socially and emotionally, while guiding them in planning for successful and meaningful futures. Their unwavering commitment to student success makes a lasting impact on our school community, and I am truly grateful for their outstanding work."

Dr. Marie Gaboton-Swift, NYSSCA Region II governor, praised the department’s work. “It was my honor and privilege to award the Outstanding Program Award to the Mahopac High School School Counseling Department,” Gaboton-Swift said. “These counselors have set the example for the state of New York.”

Superintendent of Schools Frank Miele also commended the counseling staff. “Congratulations to all of our outstanding counselors at Mahopac High School and across the entire district,” Miele said. “I can’t say enough about everything they do to prepare our students for life after high school.”