Meet the Counseling Staff
Meet Mrs. Alison Hoffman - School Counselor
Hi there! I'm Alison Hoffman, and I'm so proud to be one of the school counselors here at Island Trees Memorial Middle School. I've been working at our amazing school since the year 2000, which means I've been helping students for over 25 years!
I'm married to a middle school math teacher, so our house is always full of stories about life in the middle! We have two teenagers - a daughter and a son - who keep us busy attending field hockey and soccer games. Our family also includes our dog named Toby, who is the sweetest dog you'll ever meet! When I'm not at school helping students, I love to read good books, try new recipes in the kitchen, and travel to exciting places with my family.
I'm here to support students through their middle school journey, which can sometimes have many bumps in the road. Whether they need someone to talk to, help with problems, or just want to share something exciting that happened in their day, my door is always open!
Meet Mrs. Caitlin Fredericks - School Counselor
Hi! My name is Caitlin Fredericks, and I’ve had the pleasure to work at Island Trees Memorial Middle School since 2023. Before becoming a school counselor, I worked in finance in New York City, but I realized my real passion was working with middle school students and helping them through such an important stage of life. I went on to earn my Master’s in School Counseling from Hofstra University after completing my undergraduate degree in Communications at Northwestern University.
When I’m not at school, I love spending time with my friends and family. You’ll often find me out on long walks with my dog, Daisy, reading a good book, or exploring new places when I travel.
My goal as a counselor is to make sure students always feel safe, supported, and understood. Middle school can come with a lot of changes and challenges, and I want every student to know they have someone in their corner cheering them on and helping them grow!
Meet Mrs. Melissa Swiatocha - School Psychologist
Hello and welcome! My name is Mrs. Swiatocha, and I have been a dedicated member of this district since 2013. I’m passionate about supporting students as they grow academically, socially, and emotionally from fifth through eighth grade. In 2015, I introduced the Beautiful Me program to our district, which promotes self-esteem, confidence, and positive personal growth. Prior to my current role, I served as the district’s Chief Psychologist, and I continue to be deeply committed to fostering a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for every student.
Meet Ms. Lauren Sigal - School Psychologist
Hi! My name is Lauren Sigal , and I’m the school psychologist here at Island Trees Middle School. This is my second year at Island Trees, and I truly love what I do—especially supporting students and helping them grow socially, emotionally, and academically.
Outside of school, I’m a busy mom of two little kids. If you stop by my office, you’ll notice their artwork and pictures hanging up—they inspire me every day.
In my free time, I enjoy traveling to new places and swimming. I’m excited for another wonderful year here at Island Trees and can’t wait to continue working with our amazing students and families!
Meet Dr. Michael Perlotto - School Psychologist
Hello! My name is Michael Perlotto and I have had the honor of working here at ITMMS since 2002. My work as a psychologist with middle school students is both rewarding and inspiring. Each day brings opportunities to listen, encourage, and teach skills that help students manage emotions, build healthy relationships, and believe in themselves.
When I am not at work, you can usually find me planting something new in my yard, walking my two energetic Welsh Corgi's around the block, or making a fresh batch of homemade sauce and meatballs (a recipe I got from my dad).
The Student Support Center offers our students a welcoming and safe space to learn about themselves and to become the best they can be. I am proud to be a part of it!