Meet Your Counselors

Hello,

I am excited to join the NKHS counseling team, serving students with last names A-E. I am a Randolph Macon College and Virginia Commonwealth University graduate.  Prior to joining the Trojans, I served as a counselor in a Richmond City crisis shelter for 5 years, an elementary school in Hanover County for 16 years, and an alternative middle and high school in Hanover County for 8 years.  Throughout this time, I also worked for 4 years as an adjunct instructor in the VCU Counselor Education department.

 

Professionally, I am passionate about creating a positive school culture where all students and families feel safe and welcomed.  My personal passions include family, friends, reading, writing and the beach.  I look forward to a wonderful year working with the NKHS students, families, and staff! 

Please reach out to me at 804-966-9693 or lbeatley@nkcps.k12.va.us with any questions.

Hello Everyone,

I am Rita Richardson, the School Counselor for students with last names in alphabets F - Ma. Transitioning to New Kent High School has been both pleasant and inspiring thanks to the cooperative and supportive spirit of the faculty and staff. New Kent High School is also reminiscent of my high school alma mater, Amelia County High School.

After graduating from Virginia Tech in 1985 and 1987, I explored various student personnel services careers including financial aid, admissions, and of course, school counseling. Most recently, I was a School Counselor/Lead School Counselor for over 20 years with Richmond City Public Schools.

I am so excited to work with the students and parents of New Kent High School again this year. And, I am committed to providing the assistance and resources students need to successfully transition from high school to post-secondary experiences while becoming responsible and thriving global citizens.

In my leisure I enjoy movies, Broadway plays, traveling, playing board games and spending quality time with family and friends. I am proud to be a member of the School Counseling Team, and I look forward to serving the students and parents of New Kent High School! Please do not hesitate to contact me at rlrichardson@nkcps.k12.va.us or (804) 966-9692.

Go Trojans! Have a great year!

Hello New Kent High School!

I am excited to be here for my 4th year!

I started out my career as a middle school counselor in Shenandoah County before deciding to make the switch to high school. I am excited to be here at NKHS! I enjoy getting the opportunity to help students identify and clarify their career path after graduation. 

Please reach out if there is anything I can do to help. You can reach me by email at jdwiggins@nkcps.k12.va.us, or by phone at 804-557-3051.

I welcome you all to our school counseling website and hope that you will visit often. 

This is my nineteenth year as a School Counselor at NKHS, however I have been involved with the school system for over 29 years as a mom, community member, and substitute. I work with students whose last names begin with the letters So-Z.

My husband and I are originally from Williamsburg and have lived in New Kent since 1985. We have three children (all of whom graduated from New Kent High School), four grandchildren, Sable, our German Shepherd and Rose, our Aire'Lab. In my spare time I enjoy time with my family, reading, working in the yard, going to the beach or river, taking pictures, and volunteering at Dream Catchers Therapeutic Riding Center, as well as Proclaiming Grace Outreach.

As a School Counselor, I am here to advocate for and assist each of my students as they complete their journey through high school. My goal is to help students make well informed decisions as they prepare for post high school opportunities. I can provide information and support that promotes growth in all areas of school counseling; academic, career, and social/emotional. 

Students, I welcome you and want to support you throughout your high school journey. While I will reach out to you for a formal meeting each year please know that I am available to support you at any time.

Parents, I welcome your thoughts as they relate to your student's needs and our school counseling program. I look forward to working with you to ensure a positive and productive academic experience for your student.

My office hours are Monday through Friday 7:20am-2:45pm

Phone: 804-966-8507

Email: pnixon@nkcps.k12.va.us