Education

B.S. in Kinesiology: Exercise Science/Physiology, Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi

M.S. Rehabilitation Counseling, Texas Tech University

Bio

My name is Mrs. Larissa Leal Duke. I was born and raised in Robstown, TX and graduated as a Robstown Cotton Picker.  I attended Texas A&M University, College Station for 3 1/2 years and moved home to finish my bachelors degree at Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi.  I realized at an early age that education was vital to my future success in life. I did not start out to be a high school counselor; I originally majored in Exercise Physiology to pursue a career in Physical Therapy. Life happens and my interests changed so I followed my families tradition of educators and had a passion to help others.  While I was there I met several professors that encouraged me to move towards education and counseling and I graduated with a M.S. degree in Rehabilitation Counseling. I have always had a passion for special populations and was blessed to find a career that combined my love for helping others and special needs students. Shortly after graduation I began working for Texas Department of Rehabilitation Services assisting individuals with disabilities to get back in the workplace.  I saw the need that many students/adults needed career and personal guidance and decided to move into the school counseling field. I vividly remember being in high school and not going to see my counselor because I used to think you only saw a counselor if you were in trouble. I missed out on a lot of good information so I encourage all students to come in even you think we are busy, I will try my best to help however I can. I take a lot of pride in helping students and I want to see all our students reach for their goals, whatever they may be. If your students are not sure what they want to do for their future, come on in and let’s talk about it. If a students just needs to talk in general, I'm here for that too.

I have 2 children that attend Calallen Middle School and Magee and my husband who is a Calallen graduate; they are my WORLD. When I have some free time, I love crafts and spending time with family and friends doing the simple things like: movies, barbecuing, going to the lake and playing games. Life’s short, stay positive, focused and honest with yourself, the rest will come. Remember ATTITUDE is the key ingredient to success.   “GO CATS”