Karri Amelunke
Hi!  I'm Karri Amelunke, one of the school counselors at the Primary School.  I have been at the Primary since 2002. I love this job because I get to know all the students here and share with them my favorite things to teach- friendship, problem-solving, self-regulation, mindfulness and growth mindset.  I live in Ashland with my husband, two teenagers and two dogs.  We like to travel, hike and do Taekwon-Do together.  If I have time to myself, I love to read, walk my dogs and practice yoga. I love this community and love being at the Primary School!  I think it's the best and most positive place for learning!

Kathleen Downey
Hello, I am Kathleen Downey.  I am a counselor at Southern Boone Primary.  My family and I moved here a few years ago to the area and we love it here.  I was a teacher and then counselor for many years in Nebraska.  I have 2 teenage sons who keep my husband and I very busy.  We also have a dog named Molly and 2 cats, Willow and Chloe.   As a family, we like to play games, shoot pool and travel with extended family to great places, like Colorado.   After being a classroom teacher for many years I knew I wanted to be a counselor.  I really enjoy helping little people deal with strong emotions, learn how to make friends and show courage when facing fears and anxiety.  I also like the family and student ties that you make when you become part of such an awesome community like Ashland.  I get to work with wonderful staff and I feel so blessed to be here at Southern Boone Primary.  It feels like home!