Meet Our Counselors
Melissa Berry
My name is Melissa Berry, and I joined the Ringgold Middle School Counseling team in the Fall of 2023. While I enjoy working with all age groups, middle school has always held a special place in my heart.
I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Washington & Jefferson College in 2002. I went on to earn my Master’s Degree in School Counseling from Duquesne University in 2006. I am also Student Assistance Program (SAP) certified, and I am a member of the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), the Pennsylvania School Counselor Association (PSCA), and the Washington-Fayette-Greene County Counselors Assocation (WFGCCA).
I have been a school counselor since the Fall of 2006, and I am so happy that my career journey has brought me to Ringgold Middle School. It has been wonderful being able to work with the students, families, and school community, and I look forward to continuing working together to help our students reach their dreams.
“All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.” -Walt Disney
Taylor Clawson
My name is Taylor Clawson, and I recently joined the School Counseling team at Ringgold Middle School. I am the School Counselor for grades 5-8 and last names O-Z, I am very excited to get to know all students and families. I earned my master's degree from Duquesne University and my bachelor's degree in psychology and Kinesiology from McDaniel College. I’m enthusiastic to be here and committed to supporting students in their academic success, career readiness, and social/emotional well-being. As a member of the American School Counselor Association, the Pennsylvania School Counselor Association, and the Allegheny County School Counselor Association, I stay connected to best practices and resources to better serve our school community. Additionally, I am student assistance program (SAP) certified and a part of our school’s team. My goal is to ensure every student feels heard, supported, and empowered to thrive.
Outside of school, I enjoy running, coaching soccer, and reading a good book.
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” -Maya Anelou
Jessica Mooney
My name is Jessica Mooney, I am the School Counselor for grades 7 and 8. I love being a School Counselor and working with students on their social emotional wellness and advocating for their education. Becoming a school counselor was one of my life's dreams. I have my master's degree from Carlow University in Professional Counseling with a focus on School Counseling. I earned my bachelor's degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in Sociology with a minor in criminal justice. In addition, I am student assistance program (SAP) certified, and a member of the Pennsylvania school counseling association and the Allegheny county school counselor's association.
I strive to promote a positive environment for my students to feel comfortable in learning skills that will provide them with positive social and emotional development. I work collaboratively with teachers, administration, families, and service providers to ensure best possible outcomes for our students. My goal is to provide students with the skills they need to be independent and motivated learners at school and in everyday life.
My interests include spending time with my family traveling, camping, and cooking. I love the beach and summer weather.
"It really takes a community to raise children, no matter how much money one has. Nobody can do it well alone. And it's the bedrock security of community that we and our children need." - Marian Wright Edelman