Counseling and Social Work
About Our Department
At Dr. An Wang Middle School, the well-being of every student is our top priority. Our school social workers and guidance counselors are dedicated to supporting students’ emotional, social, and academic growth. They provide a safe, welcoming environment where students can share concerns, explore their feelings, and develop healthy coping strategies.
Our social workers and guidance counselors are available to meet with students individually or in group settings. They work closely with families and community partners to ensure every student receives the support they need.
Feel free to contact one of our social workers or guidance counselors listed below.
Guidance Counselors:
Maria Bridges: mbridges@lowell.k12.ma.us
Ashley Stevens: afreker@lowell.k12.ma.us
Social Workers:
Lauren Dee (Grades 6 and 8): ldee@lowell.k12.ma.us
Lee Welch (Grades 5 and 6) :lwelch@lowell.k12.ma.us
Amanda Rochette (Special Education): arochette@lowell.k12.ma.us
Courteney Lanier (Special Education): clanier@lowell.k12.ma.us
Email:ldee@lowell.k12.ma.us
Mrs. Lauren Dee
School Social Worker 5-8
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.
Email:afreker@lowell.k12.ma.us
Ashley Freker
5-8 Counselor
Hello my name is Ashley Stevens. I am one of the School Counselors and 504 coordinator. I have been here at the Wang since February 2022. I have my bachelors in psychology and master of education in school counseling. 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!
Email:clanier@lowell.k12.ma.us
Courteney Lanier
SPED Social worker
Hey everyone! My name is Courteney Lanier and have been with Lowell Public since 2023. I am one of the Special Education Social Workers who works with grades 5-8 as well as the adjustment program. Please don't hesitate to reach out!
Mrs. Maria Bridges
5-8 Guidance
Hello! My name is Maria Bridges and I am excited to be one of the Guidance Counselors 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.
Email:lwelch@lowell.k12.ma.us
Ms. Lee Welch
School Social Worker
This is my 10th year working in the Lowell Public Schools and my 9th year at the Wang Middle School. In my role as a School Social Worker, I support students’ social and emotional needs to help ensure they are able to access the curriculum and thrive in the school setting. I work collaboratively with families, teachers, and outside providers to build a network of support that promotes student success both in and out of the classroom. I especially enjoy working with middle school students as they begin to develop their identities and discover who they are, and I feel grateful to be a part of their journey during such an important stage of growth.
Email:arochette@Lowell.k12.ma.us
Amanda Rochette
SPED Social Worker
Something I enjoy outside of school: Reading, writing, and spending time with my dogs!
My current favorite show: Next Level Chef
One thing I’m looking forward to this year: getting to know the students and staff at The Wang!