Jocelyne Langevin can’t walk more than a few steps down the hallways of Vera M. Welsh Elementary without being greeted by a hug. Students run up to her with arms outstretched, their faces lighting up at the sight of her. Whether they come bounding with excitement or shyly ask for permission, they all leave her embrace with a smile and words of encouragement.
As the school’s Student Advocacy Counsellor, building strong, meaningful relationships with students is at the heart of what Langevin does.
“Building relationships with these kids has been life-changing,” she said. “It’s amazing to see how they build resilience as they make connections with staff in the building. They thrive with love, care, and attention.”
Principal Kim Nashim describes Langevin as having a remarkable ability to understand and connect with people.
“When you engage in conversation with her, you feel as though you are the most important person in the room,” she explained. “She values each individual for the unique gifts they bring to the world and demonstrates genuine appreciation for those qualities.”
Langevin is passionate about creating a safe, nurturing environment where students can grow emotionally and socially. She said this mission is made easier by the exceptional staff at Vera M. Welsh, who go above and beyond for their students every day.
“It’s such a privilege to work here with all of them,” she said.
Each month, Langevin hosts grade-level assemblies where students come together to explore a the school’s monthly virtue or other topics identified by her and the staff. The sessions are filled with sharing, singing, and movement exercises designed to foster community and self-awareness. For Langevin, these assemblies offer a chance to reach every student—not just those who come to her for one-on-one support.
“It helps the students gain an early understanding of mental health, that we all experience different things and people go through hard things and we can be OK,” she said, noting she also reinforces that mental health is something students can focus on every day, not just when they need support. “It is normal that we are continuously working on ourselves and evolving.”
Known for her vibrant, neon-colored outfits, Langevin’s wardrobe is more than just a fashion statement. It’s a reflection of her energy, openness, and the safe, welcoming space she creates for every student.
“I like to be energetic and boisterous and I like the kids to know they can express themselves in a myriad of ways and can be comfortable in their skin, no matter who they are,” she said.
Langevin’s presence in the school extends beyond her office and assemblies. She greets students every morning as they enter the school, serves them lunch, and plays with students at recess. If there’s a huge game of tag on the playground at recess, she’s probably in the middle of it. Throughout the day, students pop into her office for hugs, chats, or simply a quiet space to sit.
“I like to come and play with the sand in the sandbox,” said Caleb, a student who likes to stop in and chat with Langevin.
Treasure enjoys the sandbox as well as colouring, and sometimes borrows a stuffed animal to take outside for recess. One of the pictures she drew for Langevin is hanging on the bulletin board next to Langevin’s desk, alongside artwork from other students.
“We play a lot,” Langevin said with a smile. “It’s fun to go to the counseling office and work on bettering yourself.”
In recognition of her dedication and positive impact, Jocelyne Langevin has been selected as the Staff Shining Star for the month of January. Each month during the 2024-2025 school year, NLPS recognizes students and staff who are making a difference in their schools and communities.