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Our Team

Student Services Program Mission Statement

 

The Student Support Services Department at Hickory Ridge Middle School is committed to partnering with our community to educate, equip, and inspire every student. We strive to create an environment where students feel empowered to bring their whole selves to school, develop independence, and actively engage in a complex, ever-changing, and culturally diverse world. We are dedicated to ensuring equity and access, providing each learner with the support and opportunities they need to enroll in higher education, enlist in service, or employ their skills in a meaningful career. We love middle school and are excited to support all our Hickory Ridge Mavericks!

 

 

 

Student Services Program Vision Statement

 

The Hickory Ridge Middle School Student Services Department empowers every student to thrive by promoting equity and access, fostering comprehensive development, and encouraging collaboration among peers, educators, families, and the community. Together, we cultivate a culture of lifelong learning, equipping students with the skills and resilience they need to navigate their futures with confidence and purpose.

Grade level counselors will deliver classroom guidance lessons throughout the school year. Lesson topics will follow the American School Counseling Association National Model and adhere to CCS Policy 3200. Lessons will address the three ASCA domains: Academic, Personal/Social, and Career Development. If you have any questions about these lessons or would like to opt your student out of participation, please contact Dr. Taylor. 

 

 

 

Confidentiality in Counseling

 

Counseling is built on a trusting relationship between students and members of the Student Instructional Support Personnel (SISP) team—which includes the school counselor, school social worker, school psychologist, and school nurse. SISP team members maintain confidentiality, with some exceptions, in order to support student safety and well-being.

Information may be shared on a need-to-know basis with parents/guardians, teachers, and/or administrators who directly support the student.

By law, confidentiality must be broken under the following circumstances:

  1. If the student expresses intent to harm themselves or others
  2. If there is evidence or disclosure of abuse (physical, emotional, sexual) or neglect
  3. If there is a threat to school safety
  4. If the student requests to be called by a different name or pronoun

 

 

 

Picture of student services team

Navy Blue Divider - Meet Our Team

  • Kimberly Ifill PortraitKimberly Ifill
    6th Grade School Counselor
    kimberly.ifill@cabarrus.k12.nc.us
    704.260.6501

    Hello!     My name is Kimberly Ifill, I am thrilled to be the 8th grade school counselor at Hickory Ridge Middle School. I have over 20 years of experience in the field of education. I have earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, a Master of in Science in Agency/School Counseling, and a Post-Graduate Certificate in School Administration from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor as well as a National Certified Counselor. One of the coolest things about being a school counselor is that I get the opportunity to work with all students in the areas of academic success, career development, AND in the personal/social realm. I am looking forward to a successful school year!

  • Katherine Hooks
    7th Grade School Counselor
    Katherine.hooks@cabarrus.k12.nc.us 
    704.260.6490

  • Dr. Candace Gray

    8th Grade School Counselor
    candace.gray@cabarrus.k12.nc.us
    704.260.6502

    My name is Candace Gray and I am a Licensed Professional School Counselor (k-12). I have 20 years of experience as a school counselor working with youth and young adults. I am the 7th grade school counselor at Hickory Ridge Middle School. This is my first year at Hickory Ridge and I’m super excited about my new chapter at HiRMS. I attended Hampton University, which I am proud to say paved the way for my educational success. I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, a Master of Arts Degree in School Counseling, a Specialist in Education Specialist degree in Counseling, and a PHD in Counselor Education and Supervision from Hampton University. As a school counselor, one of my roles is to be committed to aiding students with achieving their full potential, both academically as well as socially/emotionally. In addition, I am truly passionate about supporting students with navigating through life’s challenges and obstacles. In my free time I enjoy spending time with family and friends, attending sporting events, and eating at local restaurants. 

  • Kendyl Bass
    School Social Worker
    kendyl.bass@cabarrus.k12.nc.us

     

  • Megan Payne

    School Psychologist
    megan.payne@cabarrus.k12.nc.us
    704.260.6504

    [Insert Bio]