Counseling

Mission:

​​Through a personalized, balanced, and collaborative approach, the secondary counseling departments of Lewis-Palmer School District will provide opportunities for students to discover, realize, pursue and celebrate their potential. 

The counselors are available for the following:

  • Schedule Changes

  • Course Selection and Class Placement

  • Organization and Study Skills

  • Problem Solving

  • Conflict Resolution

  • Concerns about friends

  • Home and Family

  • Share Accomplishments

  • Connect to Resources

  • Questions about High School

Vision:

Students will confidently navigate complex systems in an ever-changing world by exemplifying the postures of a D38 Graduate.

Values:

Goals:

  • Social/Emotional - Students will feel comfortable and confident in their environment and develop tools to help express their needs. 

  • Academic - Students will develop tools in order to put their best foot forward and always strive to improve. 

  • College/Career - Students will explore job and career options through discussions, activities, and lessons with peers and adults and meetings with the College/Career Counselor. 

Kayla Simek

Mrs. Kayla Simek

2024-2025 7th Grade Level Counselor

Hello LPMS!

My name is Kayla Simek. I have a Masters in School Counseling from Adams State University and a Bachelors Degree in Social Work from Valparaiso University. I grew up here in Monument and went to KES, Creekside Middle School, and then LPHS. I'm excited to partner with students as they navigate the complexities of middle school, and help offer tools to build confidence, resilience, and self-advocacy skills. In my free time I enjoy hanging out with my family and spending time outside.

Phone: (719) 757-1470
Email Kayla Simek

Degrees and Certifications:
MA in School Counseling from Adams State University
BA in Social Work from Valparaiso University
Licensed Special Services Provider in Colorado

Picture

Mrs. Leslie Garza

2024-2025 8th Grade Level Counselor

My name is Leslie Garza.  I have a Masters in School Counseling from Capella University and my Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Phoenix.  I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I grew up in Monument and I am so excited to come back to my roots and be working at LPMS.  I love the middle school years and look forward to working with them.  Middle school is such an amazing time for young individuals and I am excited to be a part of their life journey.  In my spare time I love hanging out with my family and pets and enjoy camping and hiking.  Please do not hesitate to contact me. 

Phone: (719) 757-1588
Email Leslie Garza

Degrees and Certifications:
MA in School Counseling from Capella University
BA in Psychology from University of Phoenix
Licensed Special Services Provider in Colorado

Emily Hluska

Mrs. Emily Hluska

Postsecondary Counselor & MTSS Coordinator

Hello LPMS!

My name is Emily Hluska. I have a Masters in School Counseling from the University of Northern Colorado and a Bachelors Degree in Psychology from Ohio State. I live in the Springs with my husband, Jake, and our 2 dogs, Olive and Daisy, but I grew up in Monument and went to LPES and then LPMS. I have moved around A LOT but I always found my way back to CO and these beautiful mountains. My husband and I love being close to our families and love to enjoy our time together in the Springs or in Monument. We enjoy being active outside, and love to binge watch Netflix!

Phone: 719-867-8063
Email Emily Hluska

Degrees and Certifications:
BA in Psychology from Ohio State
MA in School Counseling from the University of Northern Colorado
Licensed Special Services Provider in Colorado