Recently, I had the opportunity to interview Dr. Maria Lynn Perrotta. She recently graduated (2017) from Walden University where she earned her doctorate degree in Health Psychology. She also holds three degrees from Slippery Rock University. She currently works at New Castle Junior/Senior High School in the Pinnacle Program. She is a college professor and teach at the University of Phoenix as well as Southern New Hampshire University.  Dr. Perrotta also works at Jameson Hospital in the Emergency Room as a Clinical Evaluator.  She is on the Board of Directors at Glade Run Lutheran services, as well as, a mentor for youth With PA Mentors. Mrs. Perrotta also works for educational testing services and grades SAT essays as well as the English Language Proficiency Test for the state of California,and she so happens to be my Mom.

Q:  Can you give me a brief description of what you do here at NE-CA-HI?

A: I am a therapist in the pinnacle program which is an adolescent partial hospitalization program 

Q: What advice can you give your students for success for out of school and in life?

A: My best piece of advice would be to never let anyone tell you that you can’t do something or you can’t reach your goal. And if no one celebrates you, you celebrate you

Q: What do you like most about NE-CA-HI?

A: It has always felt like a family to me. I was welcomed here 15 years ago as part of the New Castle family and have always been included in all aspects of the district. I have made lifelong friends at New Castle and respect all the faculty, administration and students. I believe our students are second to none.

Q: Can you give us a brief description of what you do at Jameson?

A: I am a clinical evaluator which means I conduct psychiatric evaluations in the emergency room. 

Q: I am aware that you wrote a book, is that right?

A: Yes 

Q: Can you tell us about the book? What is it called? What is it about?

A: My book is focused on anxiety and healthcare utilization among mothers of children with a mental health diagnosis. It is focused on what factors contribute to mothers using heath care services. 

Q: Where can I read or buy this book?

A:  Proquest

Q: What do you see yourself doing in 5 years where both of your sons are graduated from NE-CA HI? Thoughts of any new jobs or hobbies?

A: My goal  is to teach full time at a University level as well as conduct research in the field of psychology.

Q: Lastly, who is your favorite son?

A:I love both of my sons equally and I am proud of all their accomplishments.

As you can see, my Mom is a very hard working woman.  I am extremely proud of her given her accomplishments.  Indeed she is a fantastic mom and a tremendous role model.