Teacher Spotlight: Yulissa Balsamo 

The student experience at Pine Springs Preparatory Virtual Academy would not be complete without the support of our amazing team of counselors.  We are excited to introduce one of our newest counselors, Yulissa Balsamo. 

The path to school counseling 

Growing up in a military family, Yulissa is no stranger to transition. As she traveled with her family to different duty stations, Yulissa found that the school counselors she encountered along the way helped her navigate life as a new student. 

“My school counselors were always really kind, and helped motivate me to move forward, especially in high school. They were always there to help me, and it made me want to help other students at a pivotal time in their lives,” said Yulissa. 

After receiving a master’s degree in counseling, Yulissa found her passion in working with high school seniors. Knowing how hard it is to move from the “safety” of high school to real life, Yulissa has made it her goal to help her students prepare to make that transition into adulthood. 

“It’s really important to make students aware that yes, you are about to graduate and have all kinds of freedom, but you need to have the skills to manage yourself and that freedom does not come without responsibilities,” says Yulissa. 

New opportunities 

Yulissa has been a school counselor for five years, and recently joined the PSPVA team, where she is working to set up a program geared specifically to soon-to-be graduates. She is currently meeting individually with each member of the Junior Class to learn how she can make their senior year – and beyond – a success. 

We are so inspired by Yulissa’s positive attitude and faith in her students during a pivotal time in their lives!  

Fun Facts about Ms. Balsamo 

• Yulissa is the oldest child of three children, and has two younger brothers 
• Yulissa and her family lived in Japan during her 3^rd – 6^th grade years and says it was the “coolest” experience of her life  
• She received her undergrad degree in psychology from UNC-Chapel Hill and her master’s degree in counseling from North Carolina A&T 
• Yulissa loves spending time with her family and is grateful to live close to them 

Is Online Learning Right for Your Family? 

Virtual education is one of the many choices out there for your child. Explore Pine Springs Preparatory Virtual Academy and discover how our flexible online programs can empower your child to thrive, graduate early, and achieve their goals sooner. Click here to get started today! 

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