Arielle Vanessa Rawls

Arielle V. Rawls, M.Ed., is a dedicated school counselor and mental health professional committed to empowering children, families, and communities through compassionate guidance and advocacy. As a Professional School Counselor with Montgomery County Public Schools, she supports students from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade, including children with autism, helping them achieve academic, social, and emotional success. With a background spanning school counseling, therapeutic services, social work, and case management, Arielle is recognized for her ability to foster safe, inclusive environments where students can thrive. Prior to joining Montgomery County Public Schools, Arielle held leadership positions as a Social Work Supervisor with Children's Aid NYC, where she oversaw therapeutic services and supported social workers within the foster care system, and as a Program Counselor and Case Manager at the Essex County Correctional Facility, providing mental health counseling to incarcerated adults. She also served as Director of Legacy Athletics and Before School Director for The Connection, further strengthening her expertise in youth development, leadership, and program management. Her experience includes oversight of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 plans, mental health interventions, and multidisciplinary collaboration to ensure students and families receive comprehensive support. Arielle earned a Master of Education in School Counseling and Mental Health Counseling from Wilmington University, a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Sociology from The Lincoln University, and an associate degree in Criminal Justice from SUNY Delhi. She is PREA trained, CPR certified, and a member of Sigma Alpha Pi. Among her professional accomplishments are receiving a school advocacy award, being recognized by CEO Joel Sanchez for her leadership, and becoming the first Black counselor at her current school. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Arielle remains deeply engaged in community service as a volunteer basketball coach with the DMV Wave Runners nonprofit and through outreach initiatives, fundraisers, and food drives with Union Church, reflecting her enduring commitment to mentorship, service, and positive change.