School Counselors
Educating the whole child includes our students’ mental and emotional health. We seek to offer students a Christ-centered approach to mental health and healing in the midst of challenge, offering hope and restoration for students needing an extra level of care. Pella Christian Schools partner with Hope Restored Counseling to offer school counseling.
Supporting students’ mental and emotional health comes in a variety of forms, from individual counseling services, counselor in the classroom lessons and encouragement of a cell-phone free school, Pella Christian Schools works proactively to nurture strong mental and emotional health in students.
Individual Counseling Services
Students are encouraged to take advantage of our counseling services and schedule time as needed during the day. Our counselors can assist in recommendations for additional counseling services, if needed.
Counselor in the Classroom
Mrs. Jeanetta Nieuwsma visits elementary classes monthly to discuss mental and emotional topics from a Christ-centered perspective. Lessons include organization and time management, value and worth in God’s image, gratitude, feelings, building healthy friendships and healthy technology usage.
Transfer Student Check-Ins
Transitions to a new school can be both exciting and anxiety-inducing. At Pella Christian Schools, we are here to support students through these changes. Our Director of Admissions collaborates with our School Counselors, providing them with information about new students so they can check in and offer support during their transition.
PC is a Cell Phone Free School
While technology has many positive benefits, it can also lead to unhealthy imbalances that impact family life, social connections, academic achievement, faith, culture, and society as a whole. The PC Smart Device Policy is an intentional step to help our school community flourish academically, mentally, and socially without the pressures of technology.
Jeanetta Nieuwsma
PCGS School Counselor
Degree: Master of Social Work from the University of Iowa, Bachelor of Arts from Dordt University.
Jeanetta is a licensed clinical social worker with 15 years of experience in the mental health field, providing psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and families. She is currently serving her 7th year as a counselor in the Pella Christian Schools, supporting students and teachers. Jeanetta believes that by providing early intervention and support, we can help students develop their unique and individual God-given gifts.
Maria Fynaardt
PCHS School Counselor
Degree: Licensed Master in Social Work from University of Missouri, Bachelor of Social Work from Dordt University.
Maria’s Deep Hope is to help people find healing in their heart, mind, and spirit through Christ-centered counseling. Her variety of volunteer and professional experiences have been instrumental in her growth as a social worker. Maria has served as Pella Christian High School’s school counselor since August 2022 where she enjoys applying her skills and passion for helping others in an educational setting, fostering a supportive environment for students, teachers and families.
Molly Vander Leest
PCHS School Counselor
Degree: Master of Social Work Candidate at Dordt University, Bachelor of Social Work from Dordt University
Molly is a master’s-level social work candidate at Dordt University. Molly enjoys working with children and brings her compassionate and nurturing approach to her work; walking alongside students and teachers to provide support and guidance.