ACHS Counselor Chaia Jennings Named Counselor of the County
Jennings was selected for this distinguished honor based on glowing recommendations from her colleagues, who praised her exceptional dedication, leadership, and commitment to student success. Jennings said that the work, in part, is its own reward.
ATLANTIC CITY – The Atlantic City Public Schools community is celebrating a significant achievement as Atlantic City High School Guidance Counselor Chaia Jennings has been named Counselor of the County for the 2024–2025 school year by the Cape Atlantic School Counselor Association.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. La’Quetta S. Small commended her for the accomplishment. “We are extremely proud that you are recognized as Counselor of the County,” Dr. Small told Jennings. “You have demonstrated excellence in your role as a school counselor, and we appreciate your commitment and tireless dedication to our school district.”
On Friday, March 20, 2025, the New Jersey School Counselors Association (NJSCA) honored school counselors from different counties within the State of New Jersey at the annual “Counselor of the County” Awards Program. School counselors are nominated by their colleagues and selected by their respective county’s School Counselor Associations for this award.
The award honors professionals who devote their careers to serving as advocates – and often lifesavers – for the nation’s students.
Jennings was selected for this distinguished honor based on glowing recommendations from her colleagues, who praised her exceptional dedication, leadership, and commitment to student success. Jennings said that the work, in part, is its own reward.
“It is a privilege to serve our students, staff, parents, and community, and to be a part of the extraordinary guidance department at Atlantic City High School,” said Jennings. “I look forward to continuing the work of supporting the academic, career, and social-emotional development of our students.”
A valuable resource for students, Jennings has been recognized for her organizational and leadership skills in coordinating the district’s Freshman Orientation Program, ensuring that incoming students transition smoothly into high school.
“I don’t do it for accolades,” Jennings said. “I really do have a passion to help. I think I’m where I’m supposed to be, so the reward is doing the work itself, but it does feel good to be recognized.”
Donald Harris, Atlantic City Public Schools’ Director of Secondary Education, praised the Freshman Orientation Program as outstanding.
“She’s the example and the epitome of what a school counselor should be,” said Harris. “She always makes time for all students, even those who aren’t on her caseload. She goes over, above, and beyond the call of duty.”
Additionally, Jennings plays a vital role in providing academic support for special education students, offering guidance tailored to their individual needs. Beyond her day-to-day responsibilities, she has developed and implemented comprehensive support programs that foster both academic and personal growth among students. Her work has made a lasting impact on the school community, earning her widespread admiration from both colleagues and students alike.
The Counselor of the County Award is presented annually to school counselors who demonstrate outstanding service and advocacy for students. Jennings' recognition highlights the invaluable role that school counselors play in shaping the academic and personal development of young learners.
Congratulations, Chaia Jennings! Well done!
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