Ms. April V. Siders

Greetings Ballentine Elementary Family, 

I am April Siders, School Counselor at the BESt school. While I am new to Ballentine Elementary, this is my eighth year in education and my fifth year as a School Counselor. I was born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina. I graduated from the University of South Carolina (Go Gamecocks) with my Bachelor's Degree in 2006. I received my first Master's Degree in Professional Counseling from South University in 2013. In 2018, I received my second Master's Degree in Counselor Education (K-12) from South Carolina State University (Go Bulldogs). I am passionate about children having a happy mind and happy heart so they can grow to reach their full potential and I am ecstatic to share my experience with the BES family. I am here to assist with the academic, social/emotional and career exploration needs of every student. My goal is that every student at Ballentine Elementary feels valued, loved, safe and empowered. We are going to have an amazing school year at the BESt school ever! 

About Me: 

I am the mother of an amazing high school junior. I enjoy working out, traveling, trying new restaurants and sleeping. I love cool and fun earrings. I live by the three mottos of "live, laugh and love," "keep growing and glowing" and "with intention, with light and with love." I live by the mottos because life is to be lived with intention and love, laughter is therapeutic, growth is necessary and everyone has a light that shines (known or unknown). 

Favorite Color: Pink

Favorite Team:  Carolina Gamecocks or SC State Bulldogs

Favorite Snack/Candy: Reese's Sticks or Hot Tamales

Restaurants: Chick-Fil-A, Chi