VERO BEACH — Jessica Wood, Vero Beach High School guidance director, was announced yesterday as the Junior League of Indian River County’s Woman of the Year in the Civic Professional Category.
Mrs. Wood, who taught for seven years before seeking her school counseling degree, said she is motivated by her students. Her desire to provide a safe place for students to go to receive support and encouragement was the driving force behind her change from classroom teacher to guidance counselor. Mrs. Wood was nominated for this honor by Megan Lugo, Vero Beach High School guidance counselor.
Dr. Fran Adams, Superintendent, attended the awards ceremony and said, “Jessica is someone who is dedicated to improving the lives of students. She spends many hours listening to the concerns and problems they have–concerns and problems that would challenge an adult, let alone a high school student. The passion with which she spoke in her acceptance speech was but an indication of the depth of her dedication to counseling students. She has said that students are her motivation and that they leave a lasting impression on her. I am certain that the impression that she leaves on her students will stay with them for their lifetimes. I am honored to salute Mrs. Wood and the work that she does.”
Dr. Adams added, “All of the women and students nominated for each of the categories in the Woman of the Year Program are people who make a difference in our community. They are change agents whose work has a deeply positive effect on us all. I was humbled to be in their presence and I offer them all my gratitude for their contributions to our community.”
