Roberta Bennett
Guidance Officer I
Arima
Summary
Innovative professional with expertise in promoting academic, career and personal/social development programmes. Possesses excellent communication, problem-solving and organizational skills.
A trusted advisor who goes the extra mile to help individuals succeed and who brings fifteen (15) years of experience in counseling students and adults on mental health, academics and interpersonal conflicts.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Guidance Officer I
Ministry Of Education
Barataria
09.2018 - Current
- Enhanced student outcomes by providing tailored guidance and support based on individual needs.
- Collaborated with teachers to improve students' academic performance through targeted interventions.
- Collaborated with parents, school faculty and social workers to address problems and grow student success.
- Helped students develop organizational, time management and study skills.
- Built strong partnerships with local colleges and universities, establishing pathways for successful transitions from high school to higher education opportunities.
- Strengthened relationships between school and community resources, connecting students to vital services beyond the classroom setting.
- Developed strong rapport with students, fostering a trusting environment for open communication about personal and academic issues.
- Implemented proactive strategies to address potential obstacles, promoting student success in both academics and personal development.
- Oversaw career and job fairs to connect students with area schools and employers.
Special Reserve Police Officer (Part Time)
Ministry Of National Security
Northern Division
06.2013 - 12.2019
- Enhanced public safety by conducting regular patrols and responding to emergency calls.
- Assisted in crime prevention efforts through community outreach and education initiatives.
- Supported investigations by collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and documenting findings for use in legal proceedings.
- Collaborated with fellow officers to maintain a safe and secure environment for citizens and visitors alike.
- Participated in ongoing training exercises to ensure proficiency in law enforcement techniques and equipment usage.
- Conducted traffic stops for violations, issuing citations or warnings as appropriate, resulting in improved road safety.
- Demonstrated commitment to professional development by attending workshops and conferences on contemporary policing strategies and tactics regularly.
School Social Worker
Ministry Of Education
North Eastern Education District
10.2008 - 09.2018
- Enhanced student well-being by providing individual and group counseling sessions addressing various social, emotional, and behavioral issues.
- Collaborated with teachers and administrators to develop intervention strategies for students in need of additional support.
- Created a safe space for students experiencing crises by providing immediate support and appropriate referrals.
- Served as a liaison between the school, family, and community agencies to ensure effective communication and collaboration around student needs.
- Lead individualized and group counseling sessions with children and families.
- Facilitated groups to address specific needs such as grief and loss, anger management and social skills.
- Connected families with community resources to address needs such as housing, healthcare, and financial assistance.
- Maintained detailed case histories, metrics and reports to meet strict standards.
Education
Master of Science - Counselling
University of The West Indies, Mona Campus
Jamaica07.2016
Bachelor of Science - Social Work Special
University of The West Indies, St. Augustine
Trinidad07.2007
Certificate Social Work
University of The West Indies, Open Campus
St. Augustine, Trinidad07.2004
Skills
- Academic Advising
- Counseling Services (Both in person & online with individuals & groups)
- Public Speaking
- Crisis Intervention
- Community-Oriented Policing
- Report Writing
Affiliations
- A Balanced Mind
- A Positive Mindset Inc
- Friends of Arima Community Group
Additional Information
Residential Counsellor at A Positive Mindset and at A Balanced Mind (2018 - Current)
Timeline
Guidance Officer I
Ministry Of Education
09.2018 - Current
Special Reserve Police Officer (Part Time)
Ministry Of National Security
06.2013 - 12.2019
School Social Worker
Ministry Of Education
10.2008 - 09.2018
Master of Science - Counselling
University of The West Indies, Mona Campus
Bachelor of Science - Social Work Special
University of The West Indies, St. Augustine
Certificate Social Work
University of The West Indies, Open Campus