As a seasoned educator and school psychologist at Geneva High School, Michelle Vargas-Herbst has dedicated more than 15 years to nurturing the minds and hearts of Geneva’s high school students. Her days are filled with evaluating the academic and emotional growth of students, facilitating group sessions, and providing one-on-one guidance. She collaborates closely with teachers, staff, and parents to ensure every student's case is managed with personalized care. 

In fact, Ms. Vargas-Herbst’s dedication will be recognized this spring as she is a nominee for the Kane County Regional Office of Education’s Educator of the Year award in the category of Student Support Personnel. “I feel incredibly honored,” she said. “I don't think that I do anything different from my colleagues at GHS but appreciate being recognized and valued.”

The most rewarding part of her day? Witnessing the transformative journey of adolescents who are just beginning to tap into their immense potential. “I love that they are at an age and developmental level that you can work and talk with them and see results,” she said.

Beyond the classroom, Ms. Vargas-Herbst's life is a tapestry of wellness and leisure. Whether it's a tennis match, the serene flow of yoga and Pilates, or the immersive world of a good book, these pursuits help her find balance. And every night she finds tranquility in her evening strolls with her dogs. She also enjoys taking in the serenity of waterside vacations with her family.

What she really wants parents and the community to know about Geneva 304 is this: It is a district that is active and caring and truly cares about its students. “I also live in the community, so I see the value of us all working together for the greater good.”

Ms. Vargas-Herbst earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Siena College in  Loudonville, New York and her master's of psychology from Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, New York.