Erica Miller joined the staff at Italy ISD in 2011 and for two years she was the Assistant Band Director. She now has the job title of Jr. High and High School Counselor.

“Working here for two years has really been an advantage for me and my students,” Miller said. “I already know who most of them are and that helps me serve their needs so much better.”

Miller received a Bachelor of Music degree from University of Texas at Tyler, a Masters of Education Administration from University of Texas at Arlington and is currently pursuing a Masters of School Counseling from Lamar University.

She wants to make sure every student is successful when they leave Italy ISD and plans to equip her kids with every thing they will need to be productive.

“I know they need to eat when they leave here,” she explained. “This is not about me – it is about them. If they are happy and successful in what they are doing, it makes me happy. I want every student here in Italy to know I will support them on all levels, academic and extra-curricular.”

She is excited about the new guidance programs initiated this year. “Too good for drugs” is a new program in conjunction with REACH Ellis County and PAL for 8th grade leadership students that will show the older students they can have a good effect on younger students. The students will also participate in Red Ribbon Week again this year.

Miller believes that it is great when a student furthers their education by attending college. She also knows that other kids can be successful in fields that do not require college. She will not just focus on college prep for Italy High School students. Tech school and work release are also important to prepare someone for their future.

“No matter what career field kids take, they need qualifications. I want to help them get anything they need to prepare them for their next step after graduation.”

She is excited about being here at Italy. She and her husband, Danny recently moved to Italy with their children, Desi who is 8 and Dustin who is 3. They attend First Baptist Church here in Italy. She loves horseback riding, taking walks with her family and playing with her kids in the park. She plans to attend as many Italy ballgames as she can to support “all her kids”.