Nativity Preparatory Academy, Rochester’s only tuition-free private middle school for low-income students in grades 5-8, welcomes Anna Josephine Doerr as its Director of Student Support Services. Doerr brings her background of social work and passion for mental health advocacy to her new position.
In her most recent role as a clinical social worker at the Rochester Psychiatric Center, Doerr successfully assisted patients on the forensics and civil side of the hospital while determining their mental health status and needs through psychosocial assessments. She worked directly with patients and families in a clinical setting to support them with any additional resources and services as needed in Rochester.
Previously, she served as a relief staff counselor at East House, where she provided support to clients by keeping up with patient records, responding to emergencies, and ensuring that the environment was safe and recovery focused.
“We are delighted to welcome Anna to our team at Nativity Prep,” said James Smith, president. “Her background and skills will serve our students well as we embark on a new academic year.”
Doerr started her career as an assistant to local psychotherapist Jodi Aman, where she managed various social media accounts and successfully grew followers and generated high levels of reach and engagement.
“I am excited to begin my journey as a part of the Nativity team and I look forward to making meaningful and authentic connections with the students and community,” said Doerr. “I am grateful to be given the opportunity to work in a position where I can focus on creating a learning and growing environment that encourages trauma informed care and healing for each individual.”
Based on a nationally renowned educational model, Nativity Prep is entering its 13th year of providing a tuition-free Catholic middle school education for underserved Rochester youth. Small by design, with a current student capacity of 60 students, Nativity welcomes a diverse background of faith traditions with the unifying purpose of caring about education.
An extended school day and academic year, strong enrichment program, and graduate support through college and career offers students and families an immersive experience. Dedicated and caring administrators, faculty and staff personally mentor and support students well after graduation.
Doerr is a graduate of Nazareth College and Manhattan College, where she earned her Master of Social Work and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Peace Studies respectively. She lives in Rochester with her 3-year-old rescue dog Watson.