Polson counselor honored for making college more accessible

High school counselors play many roles in the lives of students and one of the most vital roles is preparing them for life after high school. Polson High School counselor Betsy Wade specializes in just that.

Recently the Montana University System honored Wade as a College Access Champion. The recognition is for individuals in education who go well beyond basic obligations to make college accessible to all Montana students, especially youth in underserved communities.

Wade said she loves working in a school setting and is continually learning from her students and peers. She comes from a family of educators and the love of assisting youth continues on through her pursuits as a school counselor. Wade enjoys many aspects of counseling, but possesses a strong desire to help students plan for their futures.

“I cannot think of a more rewarding pursuit than partnering with students to help them develop their strengths and spark their curiosity,” Wade said. “I enjoy instilling in my students a passion for education and career possibilities.

“The more our young people learn about the past, think critically about the challenges we currently face and get excited about the future, the stronger our community will be,” she added.

Over the last five years, Wade has filled her days by working with students in Polson High School. Wade grew up in Vermont and earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Dartmouth College in 2010. She spent two years working for a foundation in North Dakota before moving to Colorado where she earned her Master’s of Education in Counseling and Career Development from Colorado State University in 2014.

Wade is a lifelong learner, as she is a member of the Leadership Flathead Reservation class of 2019 and also plans to pursue further education in the Department of Educational Leadership at the University of Montana beginning this summer.

With her own education and vast experiences, Wade can instill the importance of having a post-secondary education plan. She said depending on the individual that could include a four-year or two-year college, certificate program, apprenticeship, military or workforce among other options. But explained attending college can be a great option for many students.

“Attending college can be an incredible opportunity to grow personally and professionally, and to expand career possibilities,” Wade said. “To get the most out of college, I believe students need to engage in the experience — forming relationships with fellow students and professors, studying abroad, completing internships, getting involved in research projects, playing sports, joining clubs… College is a time for self-discovery and for channeling natural talents.”

Wade has bridged the gap between high school education and college for many students over her time in Polson, which is why the Montana University System extended the recognition. Wade said she was grateful to receive the honor, but credited the entire team at the high school to make it all possible. In a press release she stated the teachers and support staff are dedicated, intelligent, passionate and caring, which makes all the difference in a student’s success.

“I feel very honored to be recognized by the MUS,” Wade explained. “However, at Polson High School, it is truly a team effort to help prepare our students for life after high school. I am fortunate to be able to work with such amazing colleagues and community partners, and to assist such wonderful students.”

Outside of her professional career, Wade has a one-year-old daughter, Sylvie, with her husband Chad. She also enjoys coaching eighth grade basketball, volunteering with the high school track and field program and being a member of the Mission Valley Choral Society.

Reporter Whitney England may be reached at 758-4419 or wengland@dailyinterlake.com