School Counselor Michelle Handschu Thrives at Woodhull

Michelle Handschu is thriving in her first year as a school counselor at Woodhull Intermediate School. A member of Plainview-Old Bethpage JFK High School’s Class of 2019, she always knew “even from a young age,” that she wanted to be a counselor.

“That passion really grew from my own high school experience, where I learned just how important it is to remember that we never truly know what someone else might be going through,” Ms. Handschu said. “Those experiences stayed with me and helped shape who I am today. They inspired me to become the kind of counselor I once needed; someone who students can trust, talk to, and feel comfortable being themselves around. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and inclusive space where every student feels seen, heard, and valued.”

Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with friends and family. “I also love musical theater and dance, and I’m always excited for opportunities to help choreograph school musicals,” she said.

Ms. Handschu earned an undergraduate degree at SUNY New Paltz in adolescent education with a concentration in history and a master’s in school counseling at CUNY Queens College.

“It means a lot to me to be a counselor who makes a difference, but what matters most is making sure my students know they are not alone and that someone is always in their corner, cheering them on every step of the way,” Ms. Handschu said.

The Woodhull faculty member interned during college at Baldwin High School and Mattlin Middle School in Plainview. She worked as a substitute at Manhasset.

“As a first-year school counselor, Michelle Handschu has made an immediate and positive impact at Woodhull Intermediate School,” department Director Dr. Ricky V. Papandrea Jr. said. “Her enthusiasm, compassion, and commitment to student well-being have been evident since day one. Michelle took a leading role in revitalizing the Eagle of the Month program, recognizing students who demonstrate the school’s core values. Her efforts have helped build a culture of positivity and celebration throughout the building.”

She collaborates with Woodhull’s mental health team, regularly working closely with the group to support students’ social-emotional needs. “Her proactive communication and student-centered approach ensure that every child feels heard, supported, and valued,” Dr. Papandrea said.

Ms. Handschu is complexly committed to student growth and engagement, consistently going above and beyond to connect with students, parents, and staff. “Her ability to build strong relationships contributes greatly to the school’s supportive climate,” Dr. Papandrea said. “As a first-year counselor, Michelle has shown remarkable initiative, professionalism, and a genuine passion for helping students thrive academically and emotionally.”

The first year Woodhull school counselor completed student teaching requirements for a social studies license at John Jay High School in Wappingers and a Bulkeley Middle School in Rhineback.

“I feel incredibly grateful to be part of a school district where I can make a positive impact on students each day,” Ms. Handschu said. “Being that this is my first year, I felt a strong sense of support from day one. Our teachers, my principals, student support advisors, director, mentor, and especially the members of the mental health team immediately made me feel welcomed, valued, and part of the community, which allowed me to step into my role with confidence.

Throughout the year, I’ve been given meaningful opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with students in ways that have been both rewarding and inspiring. That spirit of collaboration and care is what makes my job so special; working alongside such a dedicated staff and an incredible group of students truly makes this a place I’m proud to be part of.”

Prior to coming to Huntington, Ms. Handschu worked as a choreographer at Mattlin Middle School in Plainview.

“Ms. Handschu's positivity and dedication have made an incredible difference in such a short time,” Dr. Papandrea said. “She approaches every challenge with heart and a student-first mindset that inspires everyone around her.”