Crandall ISD celebrates school counselors during National School Counseling Week, Feb. 7-11

National School Counseling Week recognizes the vital roles school counselors play in the lives of students across the country. Each February, Crandall ISD takes time to show appreciation to the counselors who have made an impact on the lives of their students.

Billy Edmonds, counselor at Walker Elementary, is a shining example of what CISD counselors do every day to serve students. Edmonds has spent 24 years in education, seven of those in CISD.

“After teaching for 14 years, I decided to become a school counselor so that I could help students on a whole other level that I could not as their teacher,” Edmonds said. “Our students have so many academic, social, and emotional needs. I am thankful and blessed to be able to work with some fantastic students at Walker Elementary School and CISD.”

Edmonds makes a positive impact on Walker students each day—even if it is through a simple smile and greeting as he helps welcome them through the doors. The high-school-teacher-turned-school-counselor delights in helping write success stories school-wide—whether encouraging students to pursue their dreams, helping them investigate college and career opportunities or showing students how to deal with their emotions.

Some of the students at Walker Elementary have the following to say about Mr. Edmonds, “He teaches great lessons.” “He understands us.” “He helps us when we feel bad.” “He is very nice.” “He makes the best BBQ.”

School counselors provide a wealth of support throughout a student’s academic career. They help students facing adversity such as bullying, trouble at home, academic performance, and relationship issues. They also listen to student interests and assess skills and personality to help decide future academic and career goals.

“The roles of a school counselor are as diverse as the students they serve,” said CISD Superintendent Dr. Wendy Eldredge. “We are so thankful for all our CISD counselors and how they help students succeed in and out of the classroom. Please take time to recognize your counselors this week.”