photo by Morgan Harmon

Most aspiring teachers work in schools to be able to work with students in a classroom, but this restriction gives them limited opportunities to form connections with their students.

On the other hand, school counselors are able to build relationships with and understand students on a deeper level, which is exactly what SHS counselors Annie-Marie Thomas and Christy Vance hope to do this year in their new positions.

After working at SHS for many years, former counselors Erin Shimp and Tricia Bender decided to step back from their positions before the 2022-2023 school year ended.

Their positions were filled by Thomas and Vance. The two have always had a passion to help kids grow and improve their mental health, and they love being able to help in whatever ways are needed. 

“This is my first year here at SHS, …” Vance said. “The students I’ve met so far are amazing.”

Even though this is her first year at SHS, Vance is already enjoying many aspects of the job.

Vance has been in the district for 20 years and is a Center Grove High School graduate. She switched paths from teaching math to counseling because she felt that as a teacher, she wasn’t doing enough. She wanted to help students more outside of the classroom, and counseling allowed her to do that.

She has worked with Counseling Director Julie Fierce before and knew about the SHS counseling program through her.

“Just through time, I’ve heard a lot of great things about this school from people that have graduated here, students that are here, (and) teachers that work here, …” Vance said. “It has a great reputation.”

Vance and Thomas both love the culture and diversity of SHS. 

“I just like the culture,” Thomas said. “I love the counseling department, everyone’s great, the administration’s great, the kids are great and everyone’s helpful.”

Thomas has always known that she has wanted to help kids, no matter what field she went into. She loves the idea of helping kids, not just in education, but also in different aspects of their lives. 

Both counselors are looking forward to getting to making connections with their students and learning more about the school. 

“I’m excited to be here and I feel like I’m in a good place,” Vance said. “The staff have been super supportive and helpful.”