Principal Castro Serves as Vanderbilt Guest Lecturer

This semester, Principal Castro was asked by a Dr. Nicole Cobb at Vanderbilt University to guest lecture for a school counseling course. After meeting with Professor Cobb and talking to her about our school in hopes of partnership, she invited Mr. Castro to speak to the class directly. Dr. Cobb also immediately made The Academy for GOD an approved site for school counselor interns, and we are in our second year of partnership!

At this level, a counseling course typically covers a comprehensive range of topics related to the theory and practice of counseling such as human development and psychology, cultural competence, ethics, and professional etiquette. With over a decade of experience in the field of psychology and counseling, Mr. Castro spoke towards the Academy’s approach to counseling and student social-emotional services at a K-12 level, highlighting childhood development and scriptural teachings.

Following the visit, Dr. Cobb shared, ”I want to express our heartfelt gratitude to Alex Castro for your invaluable contribution to our Foundations of School Counseling class. Your insights and knowledge were not only enlightening but inspiring. Your willingness to share your story and your professional experiences left an indelible impact on their understanding of the school counseling field. Your presence and humor elevated our learning experience---you definitely are a favorite among guest speakers. The students especially enjoyed your interactive activities which pushed them to rethink how they build rapport and deep connection to the students with whom they are working. It has been an honor to witness how your career has continued to blossom since we first worked together. The Nashville community is lucky to have you in leadership and I look forward to seeing your continued impact on the lives of students and families in our city.”

We look forward to continued partnership and support with Vanderbilt University and are grateful for the work they do to train up counselors and social workers for schools just like ours!

You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. - Matthew 5:14-16