Marie Sonsalla
Student Services Director
(608) 582-4657
Karen Smith
Admin Assistant
(608) 582-4657
What is Student Services?
At Gale-Ettrick-Trempealeau School District, our Student Services team is proud to support every child, every day. We provide a wide range of programs and resources designed to meet the unique needs of all learners. These include services for children with disabilities (ages 3–21), Multi Language Learners, mental health supports, social work, health services, 4-year-old Kindergarten, and family engagement opportunities.
Student Services Personnel
Below is a descriptive summary of some of the key functions/roles within the Student Services Department.
The Student Services Director is responsible for the development, coordination and supervision of special education and student services. Responsibilities include the coordination of programming for children with disabilities from age 3 through 21. Other responsibilities include the supervision and coordination of our district’s 4 year old kindergarten program, English Language Learners services, school and community based mental health services, school social workers, school nursing, school psychologists and other student services.
The School Counselor plays a vital role in helping students cultivate the skills necessary for academic and personal success, while considering their unique strengths and needs. They guide students in exploring educational and career opportunities by promoting awareness of a range of pathways. School counselors support mental health through engaging classroom lessons, short-term individual or small group counseling, and by providing referrals to external resources when needed.
The School Nurse conducts health screenings, maintains health records and provides health appraisal and emergency care. The nurse assists school staff with health-related items.
The School Psychologist serves as a consultant, diagnostician, and coordinator, providing behavioral, social-emotional, and academic support to students.
The school psychologist is specially trained to assess and interpret the results of a range of cognitive, academic, and social-emotional assessments. They collaborate closely with teachers, staff, and parents to ensure that individualized interventions and supports are tailored to meet each student’s unique needs.
In addition, school psychologists work to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment by implementing evidence-based programs that promote social-emotional learning, conflict resolution, mental health awareness, and positive behavior interventions. They play a key role in fostering student well-being, addressing behavioral concerns, and supporting crisis intervention efforts.
The Student & Family Support Coordinator serves a primary link between the school, a student's home and community agencies. This person coordinates parents, teachers, students and community agencies in an effort to help students participate more fully and successfully in the total school program.
The ML Teacher is responsible for collaborating with district staff to provide support for K-12 students who speak additional languages at home. The ML teacher conducts assessments, assists with program planning, consults with staff members about services, and provides direct student support. They are also able to arrange for translation services as needed.
Marie Sonsalla
Student Services Director
(608) 582-4657
Karen Smith
Admin Assistant
(608) 582-4657