On June 29, 2022, the CL school board elect voted in 8-1 vote to eliminate the guidance counselor position that was held by Mrs. Erin Hockenberry. An option was presented to the board by CL Administration to eliminate the guidance counselor position and replace the position with a behavioral specialist. 

The position that was held by Mrs. Erin Hockenberry is more than just a school counselor. She heads up many activities within the school and group settings to encourage the students mentally, emotionally, and academically. Will a Behavioral Therapist do the same and take on the programs that Mrs. Hockenberry does? Doubtful, that’s not what they do. Do we have a behavior problem with our youth, unfortunately yes, most of America is struggling with behaviors issues with their children. Many families in the district are working endlessly to provide for their families, one parent households, blended families, children being raised by aunts, uncles, grandparents, lost a parent or both, parent/parents are addicts, alcohol dependent etc. They need a school counselor, a safe space for our children to go and speak freely on their emotions.  Good mental health will help contribute to good behaviors. We the parents, community members and taxpayers need a school counselor in our youth's school district.

We are in a time where kids at a very young age are being diagnosed with ADD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression among many other things. Mental health starts at home and carries into elementary school, high school, and into adulthood. Many kids do not receive what they need at home and the school counselor is there to help provide that stability. This was taken from our children without any warning, and we are petitioning the CL school district to overturn their decision and reinstate Mrs. Hockenberry.