As part of The Janesville Journal’s annual Back to School Section celebrating incoming educators and staff across the district, we highlight Anthony Sester, who joins St. Clair Public Schools as the new High School Counselor for the 2026–2027 school year.
Sester entered the district “hot off the presses,” having completed his Master’s degree in Counseling with a specialization in school counseling from the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota, in April 2026. Having been homeschooled through high school due to health complications, he went on to earn dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Psychology and Dramatic Arts from the University of Mary in 2024.
His personal experience overcoming medical hurdles as a teenager played a foundational role in shaping his career path. “As a teenager, I could have used some guidance as far as how to get back on my feet after my medical hurdles,” Sester shared. After working with a therapist, he fell in love with human behavior, neuroscience, and brain anatomy. Though he initially entered graduate school planning to pursue clinical counseling, his practical experiences in school settings ignited a deep passion for supporting youth.
Sester draws strong inspiration from his undergraduate advisor, Dr. Link, whose holistic approach left a lasting impact. “The thing that struck me the most was how he cared not only for my academic success but for my growth as a whole person,” he recalled. “He wanted me to succeed not just academically but interpersonally, internally, and professionally.”
While school counseling differs from traditional classroom instruction, Sester looks forward to guiding students through career exploration while helping them realize their full potential. “I believe that every individual is unique with strengths and weaknesses,” he explained. “I believe that every student has the right to a quality education and that every student has the ability to succeed…students are stronger than they know, braver than they believe, and smarter than they think.”
Outside of school, Sester enjoys theater, carpentry, origami, video games, movies, and board games. He is joined in the region by his wife, Jessica, who spent the past four years as a music educator and choir director for Bismarck Public Schools and a choreographer for community and collegiate productions.
Looking ahead to the upcoming academic year, Sester is enthusiastic about establishing deep roots in the St. Clair community. “I am hoping to connect with students and serve this Cyclone community to the best of my abilities,” he shared.
The Journal extends a warm welcome to Anthony Sester as he joins St. Clair High School and wishes him a fulfilling first school year ahead!
