Hello Parents,
My name is Shauna Moran, and I am the Middle School Counselor here at Saint Leo the Great School. I am grateful to continue serving our school community in this role, supporting both students and families as we work together to help our Lions grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
One of my core responsibilities is overseeing our school’s Character Education Plan and collaborating with teachers, staff, and families to find engaging ways to weave our core values into everyday life. In addition, I am available to meet with students individually or in small groups to support their mental wellness as it relates to their education and overall success.
This year, our Middle School students will once again utilize the Character Strong program. Since introducing it last year, both students and staff have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback, and I am excited to see our students continue to benefit from the program’s meaningful lessons and activities.
I will also be providing push-in classroom lessons focused on Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and Executive Functioning Skills. These lessons are designed to help students develop essential competencies such as:
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Cooperation
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Confidence
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Responsibility
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Empathy
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Conflict Resolution
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Self-Control
In addition, I will work with students on practical strategies for time management, organization, and study skills, which are critical to their long-term success both in and beyond school.
Beyond classroom lessons, I also teach two counseling-based electives:
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6th Grade – Friendship Builders: From Conflict to Connection
Students learn to build healthy friendships, strengthen communication, and develop positive strategies for resolving conflicts. Lessons include role-plays, reflection, and real-life skills practice. -
7th Grade – LionStrong
This elective focuses on mental health awareness, coping strategies, and resilience. Through journals, art-based activities inspired by Inside Out, and student-led projects, Lions explore the challenges of adolescence and how to navigate them with strength and balance.
We are also continuing with our Academic Drop-In Program this year. Monday through Friday, middle school students who are struggling academically, have missing assignments/assessments, or want extra support with executive functioning skills are welcome to join me in Room 210 during their lunch/recess block. This program is meant to be a supportive space to help students strengthen their skills—not a replacement for lunch/recess or a time to socialize.
I want you to know that I am always available should your child need additional support or resources. Please feel free to contact me by email at [email protected], by phone at 732-741-3133 x203, or by sending me a direct message on Microsoft Teams.
Throughout the year, I will also update this page with helpful parent resources to support you with the many conversations that come with raising middle school students.
Thank you for your partnership in helping our students grow into confident, kind, and capable young people.
Sincerely,
Shauna Moran, LSW