Seventh and eighth grade school counselor Kyle Spaltholz plays an integral role in advancing students’ academic, social-emotional, and career growth at Portsmouth Middle School. A former English language arts teacher and instructional systems coach, Spaltholz’s schedule has always been jam-packed – from spearheading school and district initiatives, to collaborating with families, and engaging students in clubs and community activities. Recognizing firsthand how data-driven school counseling and classroom teaching are synergistic, his unique perspective informs his solution-oriented, student-first approach.
Spaltholz’s experience with technology integration, curriculum development, data interpretation, and pedagogy make him a trusted resource and mentor for colleagues. Following the ASCA (American School Counselor Association) model, Spaltholz led the RAMP (Recognized ASCA Model Program) within the district, aligning K-12 counseling practices to national standards. He has also led the implementation of the IXL personalized learning program; coached colleagues on technology like AI; facilitated professional learning community (PLC) book studies and agenda-building; helped develop the school’s multitiered system of supports (MTSS) framework rollout; co-authored the district’s response to intervention (RTI) handbook; ensured effective use of individualized learning plans (ILPs); organized state testing logistics; and helped craft curriculum for the school’s college and career readiness class “21st Century Skills.” Spaltholz also guides districtwide professional development and presents at national conferences.
To help students navigate major life changes, often due to deployment because of Portsmouth’s large military population, Spaltholz sparked student participation in Anchored4Life, a peer-to-peer club to connect youth while building change and resiliency skills. He champions student involvement on all fronts, whether helping with fundraisers for Rachel’s Closet, promoting kindness through Rachel’s Challenge, co-facilitating the school’s social justice club, planting trees for Earth Day, or helping students find belonging within the school’s Minecraft for Education club, which he founded.
Spaltholz earned his bachelor’s in secondary English from the University of Rhode Island in 2011 and his master’s in school counseling from Providence College in 2024.
Press Release: Portsmouth Middle School Counselor Lauded With National $25,000 Milken Educator Award
