Gerstell Announces Appointment of New School Counselor
After five years as a Leadership Instructor at Gerstell Academy, Mr. Dan Gourley will begin the 2020-21 school year in a new role as School Counselor. Mr. Gourley has 14 years' experience as a school counselor and nearly 25 years of experience in education. His arrival at Gerstell came after serving as an adjunct faculty member at McDaniel College where he taught a Sports Psychology based course while simultaneously working in the Carroll County Public School system as a school counselor. During his tenure, he says, “I’ve always heard great things in and around Carroll County about Gerstell Academy. Because of the positive image about Gerstell, I’ve always been curious and interested in what makes that school different from other schools.”
Mr. Gourley earned a degree in Psychology from Salisbury University where he was a 4-year member of the Division III lacrosse team. He served as captain for the team during his senior year. After earning his degree, he took a flight ‘across the pond’ to live in London, England. During his year-long stay, he enjoyed playing and teaching the game of lacrosse through the English Lacrosse Union. Upon his return to the states, Mr. Gourley earned his master's degree in Counseling from Sam Houston University in Texas.
According to Mr. Gourley, “Teaching at Gerstell Academy is an honor. The students, staff, and parents share a unique bond with one another where our primary focus is helping students achieve to work to reach their full potential.” His passion is helping students improve on their personal, academic, and emotional goals. Mr. Gourley says, “It can be difficult to measure personal improvements in a short amount of time. We tend to judge ourselves on the outcome, rather than the small steps to the beginnings of our dreams.” Students clearly benefit from Mr. Gourley’s positive and genuine outlook and philosophy. His motto for counseling is, “Trust in the process of hope and perseverance”.
2500 Old Westminster Pike
Finksburg, MD 21048-1823
410-861-3000
1-866-861-3300
Finksburg, MD 21048-1823
410-861-3000
1-866-861-3300
