With new counselors, it may be difficult for people to keep up. Students whose last names start with letters A through G will no longer have Ms. Watermen as their counselor. Instead, Mr. Searfoss will be taking her spot. 

In his interview with the WSJ,  Mr. Searfoss’ intention of devoting himself to his job was very clear. He states, “In the long term, my hope is that I can help students’ dreams become a reality.” Whether students want to go to college, the military, trade school, or the workforce, Searfoss is willing to assist. He also hopes his students will recognize him as a valuable asset they can access. He is more than willing to answer any questions students may have. 

Before coming to Upper Perk, Searfoss double-majored in Communication and Psychology, earning his undergraduate degree at the University of Pennsylvania. He completed his Master’s degree in Secondary School Counseling at West Chester University. Before coming to UPSD, Searfoss was a school counselor for 19 years at Avon Grove High School, serving as the department chair for the Student Services and Guidance department for the past 6 years. He even served as the AP Coordinator, and dual enrollment liaison with Delaware County Community College, and served on multiple committees.

However, Mr. Searfoss did not always have high school counseling as his desired career path. As someone who dreamed of becoming an ESPN SportsCenter anchor, Mr. Searfoss completed an 

internship with Comcast Sportsnet Philadelphia over the summer between his junior and senior years of college. Upon graduation, he worked as a production assistant for Comcast Sportsnet. However, the hours were not ideal, as sports occur when the general population is not working. He decided to attend graduate school to become a school counselor. Now working in counseling, he is content with his more balanced schedule, which allows him time with his family. 

As a freshman in high school, Mr. Searfoss described himself as extremely reserved. However, he feels his participation in numerous musical ensembles including playing the drums and percussion, helped him boost his confidence, allowing him to interact with students of all ages. 

After many years at his previous school, Mr. Searfoss moved to Lansdale in the summer of 2022 in search of an opportunity closer to home, leading him to his current job. Mr. Searfoss looks forward to pursuing the rest of his career at Upper Perkiomen High School and connecting with his students to pay all of his opportunities forward.