Fuel for the Finish Line
Recently, I watched a TED Talk that reminded me just how powerful encouragement can be. The speaker, Schentel Jones, shared her experience running a half marathon and hitting the infamous "mile 7 wall"—that moment where you're questioning everything: why you started, whether you can keep going and even if your brain is still functioning rationally. But then, something changed. At mile 7 she received a call and when she answered, the person on the other end was cheering her on, telling her she is awesome and that she is going to finish strong. She described it as verbal sunshine that rejuvenated her and gave her the push she needed to finish the race. (If you would like to watch the Ted Talk, it is available at Power of Encouragement.)
I am not a runner so I cannot say I know exactly what she is describing, but I have felt that way in life. We all have our mile 7, those times when we’re mentally and emotionally drained and not sure how we’ll make it to the finish line. I imagine many of you are in it right now and I want to offer some verbal sunshine to each of you.
You are enough!
You can do hard things!
This won’t last forever, and you are beyond awesome!
As we head into the final stretch of the school year, remember—summer is just around the corner. A season to pause, to breathe and to let yourself be renewed. But before you get there, know that the work you’re doing matters, even on the hard days. So take a deep breath, soak up some verbal sunshine, and keep going. You’ve got this.
Last School Counselor Summit for 2024-2025
The last Kentucky Department of Education's (KDE's) School Counselor Summit for the 2024-2025 school year will be held virtually on June 3 from 9 a.m. to noon (ET).
For our final session, we will focus on strengthening the Principal/School Counselor relationship. School counselors will learn skills to enhance collaboration with building leaders and receive resources to help advocate for their role within the school system.
Three Effective Instructional Leadership Act, also known as EILA, hours will be provided.
Register at KDE's School Counselor Summit.
Kentucky School Counselor Association RAMP Camp
Are you interested in learning more about RAMP (Recognized ASCA Model Program)? If so, then the Kentucky School Counselor Association has just the training for you!
On June 11, they will be offering a one-hour virtual training and collaboration opportunity. To register, click the picture, scan the QR code or go to the online KSCA-ASCA registration form.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month: Prioritizing Wellness in Our Schools
As school counselors, we are at the heart of our school communities—championing emotional well-being, reducing stigma, and creating safe spaces where students feel seen and supported. May is a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health for our students, staff and ourselves. Whether you're just beginning your awareness efforts or building on established initiatives, this month is the perfect opportunity to deepen conversations, promote wellness and connect your school community with valuable supports. Below are some resources that will be helpful in your work.
 KHEAA 2025-2026 Kentucky Goes to College Campaign
The Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) continues its commitment to helping every student plan for life after high school through the Kentucky Goes to College initiative. This statewide effort includes College Application Month, Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Completion Drive, and Decision Day, providing schools with free resources to create a college-going culture and celebrate students' postsecondary plans—whether that’s a four-year university, two-year college, technical training, military service or entering the workforce.
Register your school to participate and access planning guides, banners and communication templates. Please reach out to your outreach counselor to begin planning for the 2025–2026 year.
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