Social Worker

"Empowering Minds. Encouraging Hearts."

Big feelings? Tough day? Mr. Gotschall is here to help!

At Mount Vernon City Schools, elementary social workers play an important role in supporting the whole child. They help students develop social, emotional, and behavioral skills that allow them to succeed in the classroom and beyond. Through individual and small-group support, social workers teach coping strategies, problem-solving skills, friendship skills, and healthy ways to manage big emotions. They collaborate closely with teachers, administrators, and support staff to remove barriers to learning and ensure students feel safe, supported, and ready to grow. Elementary social workers also partner with families, offering guidance and connecting them with community resources when additional support is needed.

At Columbia Elementary, Mr. Nick Gotschall serves in this important role. With years of experience working with children and adolescents, he brings knowledge, compassion, and dedication to his work each day. Mr. Gotschall earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Mount Vernon Nazarene University, his Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from Ashland University, and completed his School Counseling licensure through Walsh University.

More importantly, Mr. Gotschall is a friendly and familiar face throughout the building. He greets students each morning, shares lunch with a different group of students every day, plays and interacts with them at school, and regularly checks in to see how they are doing. His caring presence helps students feel valued, heard, and connected. Mr. Gotschall is proud to support the students and staff of Columbia Elementary and is committed to helping every child feel confident, included, and ready to shine.