Meet Our Counselors

Mrs. Emily Straub

Email: STRAUBE@pearlandisd.org

Hello! My name is Emily Straub and I am the 7^th grade counselor. Here’s a little about me.

I grew up in Friendswood, Texas and after high school, I attended Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas (Go Red Raiders!) to earn my Bachelor of Science in Multidisciplinary Studies. A few years into my teaching career I decided to go back to school and earn my Masters in School Counseling from Lamar University. I have been a part of Pearland schools since 2012. Prior to Junior High South, I was a math and science teacher at Berry Miller Junior High for 7 years; I think junior high students are the best and I am lucky to be part of such a strong and supportive community.

As for my family, my husband and I met after college and got married in 2015. We welcomed a beautiful daughter, Carter, in 2018 and  a sweet baby boy, Mason, in 2021. I also have two dogs that truly complete my family.

I am so excited to be your student’s junior high school counselor and am here to help in any way that I can. My goal is for every student to be successful and reach their maximum potential. I absolutely love my job and I look forward to getting to know each and every one of you!

 

 

Mrs. Yamelis Hennigan

Hello! My name is Yamelis Hennigan and I am the 8th grade Counselor. Let me tell you a little about myself. 

I was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico and left my beautiful island when I was 3 years old to live in Kemah, Texas. When I was 6 years old we moved again; this time to Jubail, Saudi Arabia! I went to school in Saudi Arabia from 1st grade through 6th grade. We left Saudi the summer before my 7th grade year and moved to Pasadena, TX. I went to Deepwater Junior High and then to Deer Park High School. 

After high school I went to Lamar University on a Track and Field scholarship. I earned my Bachelor's of Science in Psychology with a minor in Biology. I met my future husband, Trey, while at Lamar. We married in 2006 and now have 3 beautiful children. Noah, Liam, and Gillian. I definitely have my hands full! My family is my # 1 success in life! 

 After graduating from Lamar, I began teaching Biology and Integrated Physics and Chemistry and coaching Track and Cross-country. I decided to go back to school and earn a Master's in School Counseling. I love my job and I enjoy helping and getting to know each and every one of you. 

 

 

Mrs. Xochil Hinshaw

Email: HinshawX@pearlandisd.org

Hello! My name is Xochil Hinshaw and I am the new Student Support Counselor at PJHS.  This will be my 14^th year as a school counselor and my 33rd year in public education.  I look forward to working with students and families at the junior high level. My goal is to help students thrive socially, emotionally, and academically so that they are happy and productive individuals.

I completed my bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston-Main Campus and my master’s from the University of Houston-Clear Lake. I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience outside of school.   Helping others has been a lifelong calling for me and my hope is to use my talents where I am needed.

My husband and I have been married over 30 years and we have three adult daughters. Self-care of mind, body, and soul have been part of my personal life goals.

Parents, if you have any concerns regarding your son or daughter please call the school or e-mail me. I appreciate all your input and help in making this a wonderful year for your children.

Welcome to South! I look forward to meeting our students and parents.