WMS Guidance Counselor














Ms. Zaiser 
Guidance Counselor

Dari Zaiser serves WMS students as school guidance counselor. Ms. Zaiser received her undergraduate degree from Illinois State University in social work.  After a few years of work experience, she achieved her master’s degree in 2005 in social work from Illinois State University, followed by a second master’s degree in counseling from Bradley University.

"Before I joined District 52, I worked for the Children’s
Home as a counselor for children and families with serious 
mental health issues. A promotion enabled me to start a 
new program at the Children’s Home for juvenile 
delinquents.  I interned as a school counselor for District 
#50 in Sunnyland while obtaining my master’s degree, 
then worked for Catholic Charities in Peoria as a therapist 
for children in the foster care system." 

WHAT IS A SCHOOL COUNSELOR?

A trained professional who works in partnership with students, teachers, parents and the community to help students have a successful and positive school experience. Ms. Zaiser shares,

"My work is to help the students of District #52 become responsible individuals, independent 
thinkers, to develop sound problem solving and decision making skills, and view themselves in
terms of their fullest potential. I am committed to helping your children explore their abilities, 
strengths, interests, and talents as these traits relate to their personal and academic 
development."

As counselor, Ms. Zaiser provides...

  • Consulting with teachers, parents, administrators, and others.
  • Listening in an effort to resolve conflicts.
  • Helping parents understand how to help their children.
  • Referring students to outside referral agencies when appropriate.
  • Consulting with other school professionals regarding curriculum decisions.
  • Helping students learn responsibility by becoming aware of the consequences of their behavior.
  • Maintaining a good public relations program
  • Working with children individually and in groups

 WHY SEE THE SCHOOL COUNSELOR?

There are many reasons students may wish to talk to our school counselor. Some reasons include

  • school problems
  • friendship issues
  • family difficulties
  • fear, worry, stress, and conflict
  • change and loss / grief
  • self image.

Students are also encouraged to visit Ms. Zaiser whenever they have something positive to share, as well.