Counseling
About our counselors
6th grade counselor
Mr. Gaines: I am a graduate of Langston University, with a Bachelor’s of Science in Mathematics. I received my Master’s degree in School Counseling from Amberton University. I have been working in Education for 26 years and specifically as a Middle School Counselor for 12 years. Working with middle school students brings me great joy, as it allows me to help bridge the gap between elementary and high school, as well as aide in the critical period for students' social and emotional development as they navigate changes in friendships, expectations, and their own identities. My favorite past time is working outdoors and Bowling.
7th grade counselor
Mrs. Ellis: I received my bachelor's degree in English with a minor in Education from Jackson State University. In addition, I received my Master's in School Counseling from Texas A&M University-Commerce. This is my 10th year working at Sellers as a school counselor, and my 20th year working in education in Garland ISD. It is my passion to help facilitate an environment where students feel safe and their social and emotional needs are met. As a counselor, I am grateful to see students grow and achieve their goals. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family.
8th grade counselor
Ms. Ramirez: I graduated from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor’s degree in English and PE. I received my Master’s degree in Counseling Science. I have been a counselor in elementary, Middle and High School settings combined for 26 years. Middle School is what I enjoy the most. This is my 5th year as a Sellers Shark, and I am proud to be here. I have three kids and two dogs, and my favorite past time is either reading or watching any types of sports.
Responsive services counselor
Mrs. Nash-White:
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and I have been a Responsive Services Counselor since 2021. I love helping our students. School Counseling was my life for 7 years, including all levels: elementary, middle, and high school. Before that I was a Special Education teacher for 9 years. I love working in the schools and helping students find their way through life. I am married to an amazing chef and we have three children, twin teen boys, and our baby girl that is 2 going on thirteen. Proud to join the Seller Sharks this year.
Schedule Changes
Students needing to change their schedules, may request a schedule change until September 3, 2024. If you need to request a schedule change, please complete the Request for schedule change form. The form to make that request will no longer be available after September 3, 2024.
What can my counselor do for me?
Counselors will help you by:
- reviewing your choice of subjects each spring during registration (February - April)
- helping solve academic scheduling problems
- providing study skills and academic information
- providing career and college information
- helping in teacher/student relationships
- helping cope with family issues
- listening to concerns about friends, etc.
- giving you information about life and decision-making skills
- referring you to people or places outside of school for help if necessary
- being your advocate – counselors are here for you!
Counselors for each campus are certified by the state of Texas in School Counseling, have a master’s degree, as well as previous teaching experience. Each middle school has two guidance counselors to help ensure that adequate support for helping students to succeed and meet their goals is available.
Choice of school
Because of the Choice of School Program offered by the district, your child has the opportunity to select a high school campus best suited to their needs and goals for their future.
Important Choice of Subject Dates:
Upcoming dates in January 2025
Responsive Services
The Responsive Services program at Sellers is committed to providing education, intervention, helpful resources to students, parents, administrators, and the community in a ways that assist students in choosing healthy lifestyles. If your child is having difficulty coping academically, socially, or behaviorally, a Responsive Services Counselor is available to meet with them. Inquiries can be made by contacting the Counseling Office.
Suicide Prevention
Call 911 for medical emergencies and 988 for mental health and suicide crises.
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month —a time to raise awareness of this stigmatized and often taboo topic.
National Suicide Prevention Week is September 4-10, with World Suicide Prevention Day being September 10th. While suicide prevention is important to address year-round, Suicide Prevention Awareness Month provides a dedicated time to come together with collective passion and strength to address the complex topic.
After years of advocacy and preparation, 988 is now available, call or text, nationwide as the new number to contact for mental health, substance use, and suicide crises — a simple, easy-to-remember way for people to get help. This new number will allow people to quickly connect with support during a crisis, 24/7, no matter where they live.
View more information on suicide prevention.
Need more information
Feel free to visit our district Guidance & Counseling website for more information about all the programs that are offered to you and your child.
Self care
Our counselors want to remind you to care for yourself. Here are some tips for self care they would like to share with you.