School Counseling
Phone: 256-734-4271 Ext. 5030
Degrees and Certifications:
Bachelor's in Elementary Education from Athens State University
Working on my Master's degree in Guidance and Counseling from the University of West Alabama
Mrs. Vaughan
I am Ashley Vaughan. I am married to my high school sweetheart, Matt. Together we have four wonderful children, Matalyn, a sophomore at Cullman High School, Ashton an 8th grader at Cullman Middle School, Morgan a 6th grader at East Elementary and Madison a 4th grader at East Elementary. I have worked as a substitute teacher in the city for the past four years. I have received my Bachelor's in Elementary Education from Athens State University and am currently obtaining my Master's degree in Guidance and Counseling from the University of West Alabama.
West Elementary School Counseling Program Vision Statement
The vision of the counseling department at West Elementary School is that every student is a prepared and proactive leader in their vocation, a compassionate and active member of their community, and an energetic advocate for lifelong growth and learning.
West Elementary School Counseling Program Mission Statement
The mission of the West Elementary School counseling program is to provide every student with access to a comprehensive, data-driven school counseling program. The school counselor will advocate for all students’ unique needs and uphold a welcoming and equitable environment that encourages academic growth, social-emotional health, and career development. The school counselor will show leadership by modeling a holistic approach to education, leading the effort in identifying and addressing school wide student needs, and implementing continual collaboration with all stakeholders. Through these roles, the school counselor will make a lasting impact on the school climate so that students can be successful and responsible community members and citizens of our country.
Opt-In for School Counseling & Mental Health Services
Under Alabama law, as of October 1, 2025, no student under the age of sixteen may participate in ongoing school counseling services including, but not limited to, mental health services, unless (1) the student’s parent or legal guardian has submitted a written opt-in granting permission for the student to participate or (2) there is an imminent threat to the health of the student or others.
Therefore, if your child is under sixteen, they will only be allowed to participate in the aforementioned services if you opt-in. If you would like the school system to be able to offer and/or provide services to your child, ages 16 or younger, you must opt-in for each individual service listed for them to participate in that service.
Even if you do not opt-in to mental health services, your child may be provided mental health services if there is an imminent threat to their health or others. School employees may determine in their discretion whether such an imminent threat exists and provide any mental health services they deem necessary under the circumstances.