Shining a Light on . . . Britney Dedmon

Britney Dedmon has a kind, calm spirit that is evident when you watch her interact with our girls. Take a minute to get to know a little more about SAA K-8 School Counselor, Mrs. Dedmon.

How long have you worked at SAA-SDS?

I have been at SAA-SDS for 3 years.

What is your educational background?

I graduated from the University of Memphis with a Bachelor of Science in Education, concentration in Youth Services with a minor in Child Development. I then went on to New York University where I received a Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance with a concentration in School Counseling K-12.

Why did you want to become a counselor?

I feel I have had a passion to serve and help others since I was a young child. Growing up in a poverty-stricken area of rural West Tennessee, I saw firsthand my peers undergo harsh judgment over situations they had no control over. Those experiences struck a nerve within me and inspired me to want to make a difference and support others along the way. 

How would you describe your role here at SAA-SDS? How does the job of school counselor differ from the traditional guidance counselor role?

My role at St. Agnes Academy is to create a comprehensive data-driven school counseling program that meet the needs of all students socially, emotionally, and academically. The term “guidance counselor” is evolving to the term “school counselor” as it more accurately reflects the role. The scope of duties has changed becoming more proactive, with a data-driven focus, providing the best services to all students.

What do you hope to accomplish in your job?

I hope to provide a safe space in which all our students feel heard and accepted.

What do you enjoy most about your job/what are your favorite parts of your job?

My absolute favorite parts of my job are my guidance sessions with the girls! I love it when a student has an “a-ha” moment where they are making new connections and having thought provoking discussions. I truly cherish that time with them! 

Are there any things you are involved in/working on right now that you are particularly excited about?

Last year we were unable to have small group sessions, so it was exciting to start that back this year! The small group activities are voluntary--parents can sign their daughter up or teachers can nominate students to join. I held New Student small group sessions last fall and recently completed a Swimming in a Sea of Friends small group with 1^st-3^rd grade girls. The group topics are formed by the student and parent surveys which ask for areas of focus or need for the year. 

What is the most important life lesson you want students to learn?

Don’t be afraid to make a mistake. We can learn so much from our mistakes, and all it takes is the willingness to learn. "Be brave, take chances, make mistakes. That’s how you grow.” - Mary Tyler Moore

Which of the Dominican Pillars-Study, Prayer, Community, Service-is supported most by your role here, or which one impacts you the most/means the most to you?

I believe the pillar of Community means the most to me each day, because through our community the other pillars are supported and strengthened. Through community we grow, through community we learn, and through community we find support. 

What are you grateful for?

I am grateful for the girls here at St. Agnes that have changed my life more than they will ever know. Their sweet hugs and caring “hellos” brighten my day! I am also grateful for the families who have been so supportive of me, my counseling program, and ideas. I am grateful for SAA!