Concern should drive us into action, not into a depression.

Karen Horney

It is with great pleasure that I introduce myself to you esteemed parents and students. As a NYS certified school psychologist, I have worked at Hempstead Public Schools (HPS) for 20 years and professionally, have been in the field for twenty-three years. I am also a NYS licensed psychologist and have served on various Special Education Committees at HPS.

I pride myself on my commitment to the families and students I serve. When it comes to counseling, I prefer using research-based methods and strategies that have been effective in improving student outcomes. I recognize the          importance of working with parents and colleagues and prefer a team approach, when it comes to reducing challenging and difficult behaviors that may affect your child’s learning and performance in school. Let us work together to help your child reach both social and academic success. 

  All students can achieve and at the Joseph A. McNeil Elementary School, we value the impact of positive mental health on learning and behavior. This is why every morning; we encourage students to be engaged and involved in a classroom activity designed to promote socio-emotional learning. If you have a suspicion that your child is experiencing difficulty with learning or behavior, I would be happy to assist you in exploring school-based options and if necessary, more comprehensive supports that might be suitable for your child.

In need of out-of-school supports? My knowledge of, and experience with community resources such as local counseling agencies, social services, or after-school programs, may be of benefit to you. Email me at kgordonstewart@hempsteadschools.org to ask me a question or find out more about these resources. I look forward to meeting and working with you this school year.

Are you feeling stressed from the COVID pandemic or feeling alone/depressed? It is more common during this time to feel overwhelmed and helpless. YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Help is available right at your fingertips. Look below to find a hotline that may be of interest.

National Domestic Violence Hotline                                  800-799-7233

National Institute of Drug Abuse Hotline                           800-662-4357

Youth Hotline                                                                 877-968-8491 or Text Teen2Teen to 839863

National Suicide prevention Lifeline (for youth and adults) 800-273-8255

Warmlines – Peer-run listening lines staffed by people in mental health recovery themselves

The Empowerment Center in NY                                   877-4357-800 

Hours: 8 am – 8 pm M-F EST

Parachute NYC Dept. of Health and Mental Hygiene       646-741-HOPE (4673)  

Hours: Daily from 4 pm to Midnight EST  

Assn. for Mental Health and Wellness Peer Support Line   631-471-7242 

Hours: Saturdays 5 pm to 10 pm and Sundays 2 pm to 7 pm EST