• About Our Department

    At the Dr. An Wang Middle School, the well-being of every student is our top priority. Our school social workers and guidance counselors are here to support students’ emotional, social, and academic growth. They provide a safe and welcoming space where students can discuss their challenges, explore their feelings, and develop coping strategies.

    Our social workers and guidance counselors are available to meet with students individually or in group settings, as well as collaborate with parents and community resources in order to support student needs. 

    Please see the Lowell Public Schools “Community Resource Guide” for information about local supports and resources: https://www.lowell.k12.ma.us/Page/664

    Feel free to contact one of our social workers or guidance counselors below:

    Guidance Counselors:

    Maria Bridges: mbridges@lowell.k12.ma.us

    Ashley Freker: afreker@lowell.k12.ma.us

     

    Social Workers:

    Lauren Dee (Grades 5 and 7): ldee@lowell.k12.ma.us

    Lee Welch (Grades 6 and 8) lwelch@lowell.k12.ma.us

    Aimee Soulios (Special Education): asoulios@lowell.k12.ma.us

    Courteney Lanier (Special Education): clanier@lowell.k12.ma.us

     

Phone:

Email:

Degrees and Certifications:

Mrs. Maria Bridges

Hello! My name is Maria Bridges and I am excited to be the Guidance Counselor for the Wang Middle School. I have taught middle school in Lowell for over 15 years then transitioned into the role of guidance counselor in 2021. I thoroughly enjoy cultivating positive relationships and helping students to become their best selves.

Phone:

Email:

Degrees and Certifications:

Ms. Kellieann Connolly

School Psychologist

I have been a school psychologist with LPS since September 2021 and am excited to be starting another school year. I work at both the Wang Middle School and the Shaughnessy Elementary School. What I enjoy most about my role here is not only helping students learn and grow, but also learning from them along the way. When I'm not at school, I enjoy reading, hiking/walking with my pup, and spending time with family and friends. I look forward to working with you and please don't hesitate to reach out with questions or support.

Phone:

Email:

Degrees and Certifications:

Mrs. Lauren Dee

School Social Worker

I'm Mrs. Dee! I am a school social worker dedicated to supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional well-being. I help students manage challenges, build coping skills, and connect with resources both in and out of school. Whether it’s providing a safe space to talk, supporting problem-solving, or working with families and teachers, I am always here to help students be their best selves inside and outside of school.

 

Phone:

Email:

Degrees and Certifications:

Ashley Freker

School Counselor

Hello my name is Ashley Freker. I am one of the School Counselors and 504 Coordinator. I have been at the Wang since February 2022. I have my bachelors in psychology, a master's of education in school counseling, and I'm in school to get another masters in social work. When I am not at the Wang I am traveling, hiking, or with my dog Maya. I look forward to working with your student(s). Feel free to reach out for any support needed!

Phone:

Email:

Degrees and Certifications:

Courteney Lanier

Hey everyone! My name is Courteney Lanier and I graduated with my Masters in Social Work from Regis College in 2023. I am one of the Special Education Social Workers who works with grades 5, 6, and 7. Please don't hesitate to reach out!

Phone:

Email:

Degrees and Certifications:

Ms. Lee Welch

School Social Worker

Hello! My name is Lee Welch. I am one of the Social Workers at the Wang Middle School. This year I will be supporting 6th and 8th graders at the Wang. Please reach out if you need support or a check-in. I look forward to getting to know you!