Counselor's Corner

Counselors Chat...

Kristy Best, Counselor at RMS

How long have you been with ORS?  

Since 2008

How did you know your chosen subject area/grade level was right for you?

My friends always commented on the fact that I listened well and offered great support, so counseling seemed like an appropriate career to maximize my strengths.  I have always loved working with kids and students of all ages so school counseling appealed to me most.
I particularly love working with middle school students because I'm able to help them deal with the personal and social issues that arise at this pivotal time of growth and change.

What's your greatest achievement/proudest moment as an educator?  

Anytime a student or parent thanks me for helping them in some way, I feel proud and grateful the have the opportunity to do what I do.

What do you love about education?

I love the excitement of learning new things, but I also love the opportunities that are provided through education.  I try to encourage students to value their opportunity for an education now so that they don't close doors of opportunity later in life.

What's the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding thing for me is to watch a student grow and mature over the course of the four years while they are here at RMS.  The counselors follow the students as they progress through each grade level so I have the opportunity to really get to know my students and their families during that time.  I am always amazed at the growth and maturity that can occur during the middle school years, and I love having the opportunity to brag on my students and praise them for making positive strides.

Share a unique or surprising personal fact.

I have two beautiful red-headed, blue-eyed twins.  I just learned that red hair with blue eyes is supposedly the rarest combination on the planet.  Apparently finding the two in combination is about as common as finding a four-leaf clover.  My husband is also a red head with blue eyes which means I'm surrounded by that combination. It must mean I'm super lucky!

What's something on your bucket list?

To hang-glide; to travel abroad

What are your hobbies or interests away from ORS?

I enjoy running, reading, watching movies, and spending quality time with my family and friends.

Christy Munsey, Counselor at JMS 

How long have you been with ORS?

13 years

How did you know your chosen subject area/grade level was right for you?

I love this age group!  I also love the community, staff and kids we have at our school.  From the moment I started at JMS it's always been the right place for me!  I am lucky to have one place to spend my whole career!

What's your greatest achievement/proudest moment as an educator?

I must say my greatest moments are in the little things I see happening every day at JMS.  Hearing the orchestra, band or chorus.  Traveling through the halls seeing their artwork is amazing.  Seeing the kids working so diligently int he classroom, guided by their amazing teachers.  Celebrating improved grades or behavior with a kid!  I well up with pride to be a part of the process.  My favorite thing is calling a kid down to the principal's office to make a big deal over their improvements.  They are always so shocked to know they aren't in trouble!  Calling their parents with the same news is the best!

What do you love about education?

I love that education is available to everyone willing to take it in this county.  I love the doors it will open for people.

What's the most rewarding part of your job?

The enjoyment I get from having relationships with students, parents and colleagues.  I love being part of a VILLAGE!

Share a unique or surprising personal fact.

Pinterest is my escape from reality.  I have over 9,000 pins!

What's something on your bucket list?

To get a real estate license.

What are your hobbies or interests away from ORS?

Real estate, architecture, art, home styling and design are a passion!  Spending time with my family. Entertaining.  Clean eating and cooking.  Taking part in my church and neighborhood activities.