Brittany Gould, MA, Foster Care Education Specialist-Lead
Principal, Middle College Program, WV Schools of Diversion and Transition
Brittany Gould is a dedicated educator with over 16 years of combined experience in education, residential treatment facilities, and the West Virginia Schools of Diversion and Transition. She currently serves as a Foster Care Education Specialist and Supervisor of the Middle College Program at Fairmont State University, where she supports students in overcoming educational barriers and achieving academic success. Throughout her career, Brittany has worked extensively in special education and alternative education settings. She previously served as a Special Education/Option Pathway teacher for Pressley Ridge at Laurel Park (WVSDT) and worked for the Harrison County Board of Education as a Social Studies and Special Education teacher. Additionally, she has experience as a supervisor at a residential treatment facility. Brittany earned her bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education with an emphasis in social studies from Glenville State University in 2007. She completed her master’s degree in Multi-Categorical Special Education at Fairmont State University in 2011 and obtained a post-master’s certificate in Educational Leadership from Marshall University in 2017. She is also a Certified Trauma and Resilience Practitioner, further enhancing her ability to support students who have faced adversity.
Foster Care Education Counselor, WV Schools of Diversion and Transition
Jacob Hayhurst is an education professional from Clarksburg, WV. He currently serves as a Foster Care Education Counselor with West Virginia Schools of Diversion and Transition, where he advocates for students in foster care to ensure they receive the stability and quality education they deserve. In addition, Jacob is the school counselor for the Middle College programs at Fairmont State University and West Virginia Wesleyan College, supporting students as they navigate the transition between high school and college coursework. Previously, he worked as a school counselor in an alternative learning setting, supporting students through academic, social, and emotional challenges. He is deeply passionate about educational equity and committed to creating opportunities for all students to succeed. Outside of his professional work, Jacob and his wife have two very loved, and very spoiled, dogs who keep life fun and full of energy.
