Meet the Counselors
Hello SJVA Students and Families!
My name is Melissa Tomoni and I'm starting my fourth year here at SJVA where my main assignment is being the elementary school counselor. As a first-generation college graduate, I earned a bachelor's degree in Sociology from Dallas Baptist University and a master's degree in Clinical and Educational School Counseling from Azusa Pacific University. Interacting with our students in both the serious and silly moments is an honor and brings me joy! I'm glad to be here with you as we travel through the magical journey of school days together and look forward to supporting you and your student however I can.
When I'm not at work I love spending time with family and friends, traveling, going on adventures, reading, and eating ice cream.
Hello SJVA Students and Families!My name is Sarai Manfredi and I’m proud to serve as the middle school counselor. I hold master’s degrees in both Educational Counseling and Clinical Counseling, which allows me to support students through both academic and social-emotional challenges. I’m passionate about helping students navigate the ups and downs of middle school, discover their strengths, and build the confidence they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom. What I enjoy most about counseling is building meaningful relationships with students and being someone they can count on—whether they need help managing emotions, setting goals, solving conflicts, or simply having someone to talk to. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch students grow into more self-aware, resilient, and empowered young people.
Outside of school, I love spending time with my family, watching my kiddos play soccer and doing crafts. I look forward to working with all of our wonderful SJVA families—please don’t hesitate to reach out if I can be of support in any way!
Hello SJVA Students and Families!
My name is Heflin Barrera (she/her/ella). I am excited to begin my third year here at SJVA! Before joining this community, I worked as a college advisor with the Kern High School District, helping students explore their postsecondary options. As a proud first-generation college graduate, I started my journey at MSJC before transferring to Chico State, where I earned my bachelor's degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice. I later completed by Master's in Counseling from CSU Bakersfield. I'm passionate about building relationships and supporting students as they navigate high school and plan for their future.
Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family, camping, traveling, and reading. I'm looking forward to another great year together!
Hello SJVA Students and Families!
My name is Rachael Farmer, and I am thrilled to introduce myself as one of the school high school counselors here at SJVA. Before transitioning into education, I worked in outside sales and marketing within the medical field, which gave me valuable experience in communication and relationship-building. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a minor in Human and Family Development from Arizona State University and a master’s degree in School Counseling from UMass Global. I’m truly excited to support and guide all students in their academic, social, and emotional growth. When I'm not at school, I love spending quality time with my family, which includes my husband, our two amazing teenage kids, and our two loveable Boston Terriers. I also enjoy traveling, reading, swimming, and watching movies.
I'm looking forward to a great year and to building meaningful connections with our students and families!
Hello SJVA Students and Families!
My name is Sarahi Salcedo (she/her). I’m a first-generation college graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Child and Adolescent Development from CSU Fullerton and a master’s degree in School Counseling from CSU Long Beach. This is my first year as the College and Career Counselor at SJVA, and I’m excited to support all students in their college and career journey. I’m especially passionate about helping students discover their strengths and explore opportunities that match their goals.
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my loved ones, traveling, reading, sipping iced coffees, and walking my dog.