Where did you go to school?
Blue Ridge Community College- Associate Degree of Arts and Science

James Madison University- Bachelor of Social Work

Radford University- Master of Social Work 

Why did you choose this profession?
I chose the profession of Social Work because I enjoy working with people. I wanted a career that would be challenging, but allow me to make a real difference in people's lives.  

What do you love about this profession?
I am never bored! I can make a plan for my day, but within a matter of minutes I am presented with a variety of unexpected challenges. Social Work always keeps me on my toes. 

Phone: 540-245-5134
Email: whitesel.an@augusta.k12.va.us

Where did you go to school?
Bridgewater College- Bachelor of Arts in sociology with a minor in social work

West Virginia University- Master of Social Work 

Why did you choose this profession?
I chose Social Work, because I love helping people. Having the power to make a difference and advocate for individuals and families in need was appealing to me. 

What do you love about this profession?
I love to see the change and growth families make as they become empowered. Often times we initially become involved with families when they are in the middle of very difficult situations, so watching them overcome obstacles is very rewarding. 

Phone: 540-245-5134
Email: heiston.bl@augusta.k12.va.us

Where did you go to school? Bachelors/Masters

• Virginia Commonwealth University - Bachelor of Social Work with Minor in Psychology

• Virginia Commonwealth University - Master of Social Work and School Social Work certification

• LCSW in March of 2021

Why did you choose this profession? 

The core values of social work - service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence - align with what I believe to be most important in life. So it only made sense for me to go into this profession! Life is beautiful and messy, we were not meant to go through it alone.

What do you love about this profession?

I love the complex nature of school social work - no day or issue is exactly alike! School social workers most often meet students, families, and/or communities when they are in a state of stress, confusion, or experiencing some sort of crisis. It is a unique privilege to meet people where they are and work alongside them to get them to where they want to be. It is my hope to prevent, alleviate, and eliminate barriers to success for our students, families, and Augusta County community. 

Phone: 540-245-5134
Email: dowdell.jl@augusta.k12.va.us

Hi! My name is Sarah Machold and this is my tenth year working in Augusta County Public schools.  I am grateful for the continued opportunity to engage with students and their families.  

Here is a little information about me:

Where did you go to school?
Siena College- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology 

University of South Carolina- Masters of Social Work 

LCSW July 2021

Why did you choose this profession?
I chose the profession of Social Work because it looks at the person as a whole, the systems they are impacted by and uses their strengths to create positive change. I’m naturally an optimistic person, so having an opportunity to build on a family’s strengths to address problems they are facing was a great fit.  I wanted to make a difference; to empower others to overcome challenges. 

What do you love about this profession?
I love the connections that are formed with students, families, staff members and community partners, and the emphasis on the value and worth of a person. It is an honor being a part of someone’s story and to witness their resiliency. I am passionate about my role within the school division and the variety of experiences this work allows me to have.

Phone: 540-245-5134 / 466-3140 (cell)
Email: machold.se@augusta.k12.va.us

Hello. My name is Donna Early. I have been a social worker for 21 years, with 11 of those working in Virginia schools. I am excited to be a part of the Augusta County Schools Team and look forward to serving our community.

Where did you go to School?

Radford University - Bachelors of Independent Studies with focus on Organizational Management and Development;

Bachelors of Social Work; and Masters of Social Work.

LCSW since 2006.

Why did you choose this profession?

I was created to do Social Work. The profession feeds my passion for showing children and youth that someone cares about them. I also enjoy supporting adults and facilitating groups, leading them to reach new goals. Social Work provides a dynamic framework, allowing me to identify a client's strengths and community resources in meeting identified needs and in overcoming life's challenges.  

 What do you love about this profession?

Whether I'm supporting someone through crisis or loss, helping them navigate a difficult process, assisting them in reaching goals, or celebrating an important accomplishment; I love being an agent of positive change and consider it a privilege. I also enjoy collaborating with others in creating solutions to system problems and advocating for people who may not otherwise be heard.

Phone: 540-245-5134 / 540-412-8233
Email: early.dm@augusta.k12.va.us

Where did you go to School?

University of Virginia - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, minor in Sociology   

Radford University - Master of Social Work

Why did you choose this profession?

I chose the profession of Social Worker because I like working with families and children in their environment. I enjoy being able to advocate on behalf of others and empowering individuals to reach their goals and navigate through challenging situations.

 What do you love about this profession?

I love working with families and helping them problem-solve and overcome obstacles! I also love helping individuals connect to their community and build on their strengths! 

Phone: 540-245-5134 / 540-466-1410
Email: breeden.ck@augusta.k12.va.us