*Guidance Counselor*
By: Morgan Blechschmid
March 12, 2021
Mrs. Annie Bir is a Guidance Counselor at the Brooklyn School. She works with Brooklyn’s 4th-7th graders and has a variety of different ways to meet the needs of her students. Bir is typically all over the place throughout the day. When she is not in her office, she is most likely in one of the classrooms at the Brooklyn School teaching her students about the importance of social and emotional learning and how both are necessary for success. She can also be found at our school’s sports events as she is an avid sports-lover. She is best known for the connection that she makes with her students, as she makes every student feel that they matter. Mrs. Bir is great for the Brooklyn City School District!
Q: What is it like being a Guidance Counselor for younger students?
A: “Typically, I work with students on their social and emotional needs. I teach lessons to each grade level monthly, I lead groups, and I do lunch-bunches throughout the year.”
Q: Why did you decide to become a counselor?
A: “I decided to become a counselor when I was a Health and PE teacher at the high school (BHS). Many students would come to me for advice and guidance, who I had formerly in class. I enjoy talking to students in small groups and individually. As I was going through the program to become a school counselor, I knew that I chose the right career path.”
Q: What is one piece of advice that you give to students, regardless of the situation they are in?
A: “The number one piece of advice I give to students is no matter what situation, they must trust their instincts and believe in themselves.”
Q: What are some of your interests?
A: “Things that I am interested in are sports and traveling. I love all kinds of sports and enjoy traveling to different areas to learn about their culture and food.”
Q: What are your favorite sports to watch and/or play?
A: “My favorite sport to watch is football, and my favorite sport to play is softball.”
Q: What is your favorite part about working as a guidance counselor for the Brooklyn School?
A: “My favorite part about working as a school counselor at Brooklyn School is really getting to know my students and their families. I have had several students’ parents when their parents were in high school. I really enjoy watching my students mature and grow into successful, young adults.”
Q: How do you deal with a stressful situation as a guidance counselor?
A: “I deal with a stressful situation by exercising and talking to my family, friends, and colleagues about the situation.”
Q: How would you describe yourself using only three words?
A: “I would describe myself as caring, friendly, and hardworking.”
Thank you, Mrs. Bir! We are so grateful to have someone like you to represent our school.
THE RETURN OF THE EYE 