End of the Year Reflections

The end of the school year is always filled with lots of emotions. There is the stress of trying to finalize schedule conflicts and deal with failures, excitement for graduating seniors and all that is ahead of them, sadness to say goodbye to students (both those leaving for just the summer and seniors who are leaving WKHS for good), and relief to make it to slower days of summer where sleeping in becomes the norm.

Two weeks ago today was Kilbourne's graduation ceremony and it was a great day celebrating the students in the Class of 2025. But personally, it also ended up being a really special day for me too. I was surprised to be one of the staff members inducted into the Kilbourne Hall of Fame. I am not trying to make the seniors graduation day and celebration be about me, but I have to acknowledge how much this meant to me. There are so many teachers, along with many of my former students, who have been selected for the Hall of Fame and I admire and respect each of them more than I can express. They are truly the best at making a difference and so, to me, the concept that I would be among these other incredible people is simply indescribable. I don't know that I am actually worthy of this recognition, but I know that it certainly filled my heart.

The end of this school year was also different because for the first time in 19 years, I had to pack up my office to move. As you are aware, the construction on the 2nd floor is now complete, but the first floor is far from done. The administrative and counseling center area is going to flip locations with the library which means that my office will no longer be my office. I have to admit, this made me really sad. My office is where I have so many memories with so many students from all of the years. My office was our shared safe space to talk about the good and the bad. As I worked on boxing everything up I also knew that I needed to go through files and purge away stuff I no longer needed. One of those files ended up coming home with me to my "keep forever box." I had cards, notes, and even print outs of emails from literally the first month of working in Worthington (which, by the way, was before all of my students were even born!) and reading through these notes was so fun and helped me to remember that the connection I have had with students and their families throughout the years is bigger than just the space of my office. And, once again, it filled my heart with so much love and gratitude.

So even though the end of each school year is always filled with lots of emotion - this one has been special and different. My heart is full, my emotions are definitely at the surface, and my gratitude for each student and family that I have had the honor of working with is without measure.

On the Shoulders of Giants

Today I received an award as the Ohio High School Counselor of the Year.  I may be the one who is being honored and who had their name read, but I stand on the shoulders of giants. Let’s be honest, NONE of us live in isolation or achieve any element of success completely on our own.  We have always needed teachers to guide and mentor us, loved ones like family members and friends to support and encourage us, and someone to believe in us and take a chance on us. And I can assure you that everything I have achieved is because of the incredible people I have been fortunate enough to interact with in my life and in my career.

I briefly thought about who all I would want to specifically thank and my list was quickly over 50 names without even starting in on students and families.  Clearly that isn’t something anyone wants to sit and read, but I do want to recognize my department. The counselors who make up the unbelievable team I get to work with day in and day out are truly extraordinary human beings. They are there to support, answer questions, bounce ideas off of, give a project a try with, and they truly make things happen. Nothing that takes place in our school happens without a team effort and so I thank each of the school counselors who I have had as colleagues or mentors knowing they are at least as worthy of this recognition, if not even more so.

And most of all, I want to thank and recognize my students and their families. People who know me well know that I put my heart, soul, time, and energy into this job and that I refer to my students as being “my kids”. You are “mine” in that you are in my heart forever. It’s interesting, when you work as a high school counselor people would automatically assume we are the ones guiding you. But what I have found is that it is actually a job where I get paid to learn from you. I watch as you overcome struggles, explore who you are and who you’re going to be, and find the courage to try, to show up and care, and to be open, honest and vulnerable on the good days and the bad. I have been able to witness the BEST moments with you: as you achieved a goal you had been working so hard to reach, as you won state championships, got college acceptances, and as I handed you diplomas with hugs of pride. I have even been lucky enough to keep in touch with some former students after they have graduated to be able to see you working in your dream careers, finding and starting your lives with the ones you love, and having children of your own. But, of course, being a high school student/ young adult is not filled with just good days and I have had the honor of being present with students through some of the toughest moments too: grieving the death of people you love, struggling with mental health battles, fighting terrible diseases like cancer, questioning where you fit in this world and if your life mattered (it does!), navigating difficulties with friends or family members, and all the typical struggles of high school. Your courage and willingness to share your lives with me and to allow me to walk alongside you in your journey through high school is something I will forever be thankful for. I love this job and what I get to do each day only because I love you! 

There is no question that the best gift in life are the people who love us.  I am so blessed to have been gifted with so many people who love me so well and who I am given the chance to love in equal measure.  This starts with my family (the 11 of them who provide total steadiness in my life) and continues outward to all of you.  Since the news that I was going to receive this award was announced through and including today, I have received donuts, cookies, gift baskets, figurines and flowers. But above all I have received hugs of congratulations and unbelievably overwhelming words of encouragement, love and affirmation. 

I read a quote recently that said "all the words we say at funerals should be said on birthdays because we tend to leave too much love unspoken." I can assure you, my birthday came a week early and the love that is being spoken is heard and so greatly appreciated.  My heart is overflowing. Thank you all for the support and love as I received this award!

The Olympics

I am so excited that the Olympics (technically) start tomorrow!  (For anyone else who loves all things Olympics, you know that in some sports, games have already started, but tomorrow night is opening ceremonies and so it is recognized as the official start to the Olympic games.)

I have been reflecting on what it is about the Olympics that I love so much. Obviously, I love watching sports, but let's be honest, most of the year, I am not watching all of the random different sports that I will watch over the course of the coming few weeks. I think part of the appeal is knowing that the athletes are working to achieve a dream that they have spent an insane number of hours in training all to prepare for even the chance to be an Olympian. The level of respect I have for that kind of commitment, discipline and focus is beyond words.

Additionally, I think that the Olympics transcend sports alone. When you look at the Olympic Oath which includes the phrase, "in the true spirit of sportsmanship, for the glory of sport and the honor of our teams." Or you read the Olympic Creed which states: "The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win but to take part, just as the most important thing in life is not the triumph but the struggle.  The essential thing is not to have conquered but to have fought well." When I read both of those statements, I find such power in them. To focus on the greater good, the bigger picture than just the individual triumph and the fact that, win or lose, they have given it their best.  So powerful. And so relevant to sports and to life.

I am sure that throughout the Olympics we will hear lots of inspiring stories of triumph, some heart-breaking stories of defeat, and, most likely, many moments of excitement throughout all the action. And in each of these, it is valuable to recognize that although we may never be an Olympian, each of us will face moments in our own lives where we will triumph, face heart break, or have excitement for successes in reaching our goals.  

If you are not someone who has typically watched the Olympics in the past, I encourage you to turn it on and watch at least a little.  And if you share in my enthusiasm for all things Olympics, know that I am always interested in talking about what you are watching and enjoying the most. But for everyone, I hope that the Olympics (and more specifically the Olympians competing) help inspire you to find the strength and courage within yourself to believe in your dreams and to chase them with unwavering focus.

Out Sick

This is not good timing, but I wanted to give you all a heads up that I am out sick.  I tested positive for COVID which means I will not be back until January.  As a result, I need to ask that if you are needing me to help change your schedule for next semester or to assist you with your college applications, you will need to email me.  If you are needing support for mental health, the other school counselors are there and are ready to help you in my absence.

I know this is bad timing and obviously not what I wanted.  I will miss seeing you this week.  Lexi is going to miss seeing you too!  Good luck on exams and have a wonderful and relaxing break!

Thanks for Being #ThereForMe

I love our annual tradition at WKHS to promote positive culture/ climate and mental health all tied in to Suicide Prevention week and honoring the power of connection.  This year we used the theme #thereforme to invite WKHS students and staff members to thank someone who has been there for them to support them through good days and bad, to encourage them when they are struggling, or to help listen and care.  

For my picture, I couldn't limit it to just 1 person or even a group of people... so I made as many signs as I thought I could hold.  (I couldn't.)  So who am I thankful for being #thereforme

- My dogs, Lexi and Mia.  They bring me joy and continually remind me of the importance of unconditional love.

- My parents.  My mom and stepdad spoil me endlessly.  They help with yard care, dog care, and provide a daily sounding board for talking through whatever challenges I might be facing.

- My amazing coworkers.  I am so lucky to be at Worthington Kilbourne High School.  My colleagues are my friends and encouragers.  They believe in me and push me to be better every day.  They also help make school better for me and for our students.  Between my counselor colleagues, the counseling center support staff, the teachers, nurse, and administrators, I can't imagine a better team to be able to work with each day.

- My niece and nephews, Carly, Colton, and Brady.  They bring light into my world and being an aunt is one of my favorite things.  Nothing means more to me then when they call to just say hi and let me know they are thinking of me.

- And last (pictured) but definitely not least, my students & their families (past and present) who have blessed my life.  I love the relationships and connections I am able to make with students and families as a result of this job.  I love being able to work with you, to see you achieve your goals, to overcome obstacles and to explore the possibilities ahead of you after high school.  You allowing me to be part of your high school journey and the students and families who remain in touch in the years to come, helps to give my life purpose and meaning and I remain forever grateful.

There is no doubt that there are so many more people I could (and should) thank for being #thereforme like my sister, my friends, my former colleagues and volunteers, my past teachers, my mentors, and the list could go on endlessly, but isn't that part of the point?  There are truly so many people that we should acknowledge and thank.  While we can't necessarilly thank them all in one day, we can strive to thank them all at some point.

So maybe you participated in the activity in the Commons at school today.  Or maybe you didn't.  But I do hope that you will pause and thank at least 1 person in your life who has been #thereforyou because it does make a difference!

We Love Worthington Schools

Last week at a meeting with the whole district, Dr. Bowers and other district leaders focused on why we love Worthington Schools.  As I sat there listening, I thought my answer was VERY simple...

I love Worthington Schools because of "my kids."

The students at WKHS are incredible and as I start my 17th year at Kilbourne (yes, I really am that old), I have had well over 1,000 students move through these walls as a part of my caseload.  But each of you - current and former - are not just a number of a caseload to me.  You are not just students, you are my kids.  That is how I think of you and how I refer to you.  You are and will always be a part of my heart.  So, I hope that you will know that I love Worthington schools because of each of YOU!

I have also been thinking about how much I hope that YOU also love Worthington Schools and Kilbourne in particular.  It is my hope that you will take ownership and responsibility for Kilbourne as being YOUR school.  That you will strive every day to make sure we have a welcoming and accepting environment where all students will feel valued and appreciated.  Most of all, I hope that when you think of why you love Worthington that you will think of Kilbourne as a place where you WANT to be.  

With tomorrow being "rivalry week" between the two Worthington teams as WKHS and TWHS prepare to compete in football, remember that how you act is a reflection of Kilbourne... so have fun, but make sure anyone who walks away from the game thinks about how impressive the students at Kilbourne are because I want them to see you in the same incredible way that I see you.

Meet Mia

My summer has been off to a whirlwind of a start... in large part because I adopted a new puppy.  This is Mia.  Just like Lexi, she is a miniature goldendoodle and although she was just about 6 pounds when I got her she will grow to be about 25 pounds when she is full grown.  (Same size as Lexi)

Mia is a precious snuggler who sleeps great, but unlike Lexi, Mia is FEARLESS!  She has too much bravery if anything and doesn't mind taking on stairs, climbing on, around and through furniture, and playing with dogs that are 150 pounds.  Lexi wasn't sure what to make of Mia for a while.  Actually, early on, she desperately wanted to send her away.  But she has adjusted and they play together and get along well for the most part.  (Lexi definitely doesn't want to share her bones and Mia doesn't mind testing that idea multiple times a day to see if she has possibly changed her mind.)  Lexi still can't figure out why Mia climbs through the coffee table or under the end-tables, and she will often bark at her to tell her to stop or come to alert me so that I know Mia isn't doing the "right" things.  :-)  So I am just being thankful that Lexi hasn't decided she should take on those same adventures alongside Mia.

Mia's full name is Amelia and she definitely hears that when she is in trouble.  I tend to frequently call her Miadora because evidently I should have named her Dora the Explorer because she is curious about all things at all times and has never met a stranger - dog, person, toy, cicada, bird, squirrel, or leaf - she wants to see it all!  

I'm sure I will share lots more Mia pictures and updates over the coming years and you can always come by my office where I will gladly tell you more stories about Mia's great adventures.

Goodbye Seniors

Today marked the final day of high school for seniors.  If you haven’t seen the Senior “Waving” video on social media, I’d encourage you to check it out.  Just over 75% of “my” seniors participated and I cannot even begin to tell you how happy it made my heart to see each of them smiling and waving!

Since I didn’t get to say goodbye to my seniors as they left the building for the final time today, I hope you will allow me to use this blog as a way to share a few of my thoughts with my seniors.

The spring always brings a mix of emotions for seniors as you prepare to close one chapter of your life and begin the next.  This spring has been more challenging than ever as your world was turned upside down by the global pandemic.  I know you are grieving the lost time of being together, enjoying your routines, and being able to say goodbye and transition out of Kilbourne in the way you had imagined.  You and your parents both are sharing in the sadness and disappointment that this is definitely NOT the way you had planned or imagined high school would end. 

I have had a lot of time to think about you as individuals and as a whole class.  And here is what stands out to me the most… you have proven that you are flexible, adaptable and resilient!  Those three skills are essential to living a successful life and you have found ways to cultivate all 3 over the last two months. 

Like most of you, I wish we could have had one more day at Kilbourne together.   Looking back, I wish I would have realized that when you were walking out on March 13^th that this needed to be my good-bye moment.  But that is how life works so much of the time… we realize things were important when it is too late and the opportunities have passed us by.  This reminds me that I should not take ANY of these moments for granted because we never know what tomorrow holds.  So even though this is not the final day of high school experience you had imagined, I hope, that as you reflect back on your years in Worthington, that you will treasure ALL of the memories (positive and not-so-positive) you created – including the less than ideal stay-at-home moments. 

Ever since you entered your first classroom as a Kindergartener, you have worked hard to get to today and you deserve to be proud of your accomplishment!  I hope you will remember that it’s not the classrooms, the hallways, the gym, the commons, or the stadium which defined your memories or your experiences.  They were just the places where you were able to learn, grow, contribute, lead, share, perform and compete.  The friendships, teachers, sports, performances, and yes, even pandemics that gave you added time with your family – those are your memories and experiences and those will be with you forever.

You have brightened my life over the last 4 years and now it’s time for you to go and share your light with the world.   As you leave Kilbourne to attend college, begin basic training, or start your career, I hope you know that I will be cheering you on every step of the way!  Congratulations Class of 2020!  I’m proud of you and wish you the very best in the future!

It's the little things

This past week was Teacher Appreciation Week and even though I am not a teacher, I benefitted from so many acts of kindness this week.  But I have to say, it was the little things that meant the most to me!

- I had a student send me an email just to say hi and that he was thinking of me during teacher appreciation week.  (Seriously, that was really sweet!)

- I had a few students who have been having a difficult time emotionally reach out and share what is happening for them in their lives.  This is a big deal to me - yes, it is my job, but it takes such courage for a student to do that - especially when we aren't face to face in the building together.  And I genuinely appreciated that we were able to be present with each other during these tough days.

- I had colleagues share about successes of students who have been struggling academically and persevered to achieve their goals in classes.

- I got to see the smiling faces of some of my students in the "WKHS Thank You Teachers" video... oh, how I miss seeing you all!

- I got to share in the excitement of some of the seniors who are looking forward to the in-person, drive-through graduation experience that was announced this week.

- I have continued to receive email messages with update on how you are spending your time during this stay at home experience.  (I have been working on sending each of you an individual email to check in and I have sent one to all of my seniors, juniors, and sophomores and am 2/3 of the way through my freshmen... freshmen, sorry, don't give up on me if you haven't heard from me yet an email will be coming soon.)  I love hearing about all the fun, boring, or crazy things you have been doing while stuck at home!

- I got to see some of the seniors waving video clips and they made me smile and laugh.  I loved them!  I can't wait to see all of them.  And, by the way, if you are a senior (or the parent of a senior) and you haven't done the waving video yet PLEASE do it NOW!!!  Send it to Mrs. Backhurst - I want all of my seniors included in the video!  It is something I will be able to keep and have as a precious memory of you and your class.

So, even though it may have been teacher appreciation week, I want you to know that I appreciate you!  I can say with 100% certainty that you, my students, matter to me!  You brighten my life and I am so thankful that I have the honor of working with you.  I miss you far more than you can imagine and I love every opportunity that I have to see you, hear from you, or talk to you!  Thank you for touching my life in such a big way.  I hope to see you soon!

I'm Still Here

I'm still here to try to help you and you matter to me!

That's it.  In 1 sentence, that is what I hope you know.  My emails and news feeds have been inundated with Coronavirus news, with tips and suggestions that I can share with all of you for managing the emotional toll this is having, with updates about ACT and SAT (next tests are cancelled by the way - so if you are going to test in June, I strongly encourage you to register NOW), about AP testing (still on, but who knows - you might do it from home somehow), about college responses (sooooo much from colleges - most are closed to visitors but they still want you to consider their campus for the future is the short summary from all of them), and about everyone doing their part to stop the spread of the virus, but continue with education as usual remotely.

To me... all of that stuff is overwhelming and, again - just speaking for myself, it's missing the mark.  Because right now, I am just sad.  I'm sad for you and what this is doing to your lives.  I am sad about not getting to see you face to face.  I am sad for all of the people of our world (you included) who are scared and sick or have a loved one who is sick now or will end up getting sick.  I'm sad for everyone who is struggling emotionally with being cooped up at home.  Really, just so much sadness... and, as always, I believe strongly in leaning into the feelings and emotions, allowing myself to feel them, express them, and not fight them or pretend they aren't happening.

But here is what I also know... you matter to me and seeing you and talking with you at school each day is the best part of my job.  And so even though I don't get to see you at school, I want that connection to continue.  In fact, I need it to continue.  So when I say that I hope you will reach out if there is anything I can do to help support you, I mean it!  Or you can even email just to say hi and to tell me what you are doing while hanging out at home away from other people.  I know this is not the spring break you wanted or imagined... so tell me, what are you daydreaming about from the confines of your house?  Truly, email me and tell me anything!

We posted some info on the WKHS Counselor website and that (aside from my blog, of course) is going to be the primary go-to place for us to post general information that we think lots of you will want to know or can make use of such as accessing support, local scholarship deadlines, and emotional support resources (and a Bingo Challenge).

As of this moment, my gut instinct is that I am going to take a few days off from blogging even though the reality is that there is so much that I want to say... but all of the messages I have and all the ways I could try to say it will all come back to the same thing... I'm still here to try to help you and you matter to me!

PS - Lexi misses all of you too!

Miss Abbott's Long Weekend

I ask you to share your lives with me every day.  It isn't always easy for me to try to reciprocate and allow you to see a lot of my life, but I do have all kinds of important parts of me represented in my office to try to help in that effort.  This is because I know that sharing information about who you are is easier to do when you feel that shared connection with the other person.  So, to help in that endeavor, I wanted to share with you about the incredible long weekend I just had.

I was invited to attend the wedding of one of my former student's who had graduated in 2008.  It is the 4th wedding of a former student that I have had the honor of attending.  Honestly, I am still blown away and a little confused that even after all this time students would invite me to share in their special day as they get married.  The wedding was absolutely beautiful and the experience was so meaningful, but the weekend was about far more than just a wedding for me.

Adam, my former student who got married, is pictured in the center of this photo wearing the white shirt.  He is surrounded by 5 of his friends who were all close friends of his during high school.  They are an incredible group of young men.  They are ridiculously smart, talented, and accomplished.  After graduating from WKHS they all went their separate ways to college (USC, OSU, Notre Dame, NYU, and Dartmouth) and they have lived the last 12 years separated by many, many miles and yet they have remained close.  (In fact, all of them were groomsmen.)  I love their connection.  I love their laughter.  I love their competitiveness.  I love their compassion and thoughtfulness.  I loved being able to meet who they have picked as their significant others.  I love the young men who they have grown into who are still so much like the boys I knew.  During their senior year of high school, they had 5th period lunch together and every day I would see them for at least a few minutes.  They would always make me laugh, often teach me something new, and never fail to touch my heart.  This weekend, as I got to see them all again, just as they had when they were seniors in high school, they made me laugh and they touched my heart!  It was truly a blessing and a memorable weekend that I will cherish.
The wedding was in Arizona so, of course, I could not take a trip and not squeeze in a college visit.  I took time to visit Arizona State University and got my "Oh the Places You'll Go photo" and I hope that if you took a visit over the weekend you will be sharing your photos with me too!

Looking forward to hearing about YOUR long weekend and hoping that it was as positive and memorable as mine.

Summer Fun

For me, summer is now coming to a close.  It was a good summer including lots of opportunities to sleep in, spend time with my niece and nephews (Carly, Colton, & Brady), and catch up with some of my former students.  I have to be honest with you - I enjoy the summertime FAR more than Lexi does.  Don't get me wrong, I miss you too and am looking forward to seeing you, but Lexi is desperate to be back at school every day and to see all of you.

Here are a few of the moments I enjoyed during this summer...

Brady and I went to Legoland and made a frog.  To say that Brady enjoyed Legoland is a massive understatement.  He was totally in his element and his being able to witness his joy was contagious! 

There is little I have loved as much with the kids growing up as being able to sit and read to them.  The older kids loved to read... Brady doesn't always love it, but he (and Lexi) still humored me so that we could read together.

Colton and I checking out the large wood Giants in one of their state parks.  It was fun to walk around and see the detail that had gone into creating the 3 giants.

This is one of my former students, Lauren Hedges, dancing at her wedding with her husband Lane.  What a huge honor it was to be able to witness their love as they started their lives together.  It was also fun to catch up with a few other former students while I was there - including her 2 older brothers.

My niece, Carly, kicked off the summer with a trip to the Kentucky state track and field championships with a 6th place finish in the Pole Vault where she jumped a personal best of 10 feet.  It was the first time I have been able to watch her pole vault and I was so impressed by how hard she works at it after just picking up the sport last year.  And, I mean, look at that smile after she cleared her jump!  Joy!

And last, but certainly not least - we got to welcome Bailey puppy to my sister's family.  Bailey is a beautiful golden retriever puppy who likes to chew and even though I desperately hoped Lexi would love Bailey she is still just learning to tolerate her.

So, in short, it was a great summer, but it went too fast.  I'm definitely not ready for early mornings!  Now that I have shared the highlights from my summer, I hope you will stop in to see me and let me know how your summer went and what you did to stay busy.

Congratulations Seniors

Dear Seniors,

Congratulations!  You have officially completed your LAST day of high school!  For the past 13 years you have worked hard to grow as an individual, to learn lessons in the classroom and beyond, and to make an impact in our school and community.  In Worthington they often talk about how we are working with students who will one day change the world.  I have no doubt in my mind that you will accomplish that goal - in large part because I already believe you are changing the world around you!  I know for a fact that my life has been changed by you and I am confident the other students who will still be in classes tomorrow will have similar feelings.  You make a difference often without even realizing the depth of impact that you are having on others.

Over the last four years I have been honored to watch you grow and change from often shy freshmen into often very outspoken seniors.  You have passion, enthusiasm, and a commitment to your goals (even if your commitment to procrastination is equally high).  I am grateful for the chance to celebrate with you as you received college acceptances or shared the news of how much fun you had at a Friday night football game or the Homecoming dance.  I treasure the moments when you let me see the "real you" that so many others don't always get to see - the parts of you when you felt frustrated, hurt, angry or sad.  I know you to be engaging and driven and you never cease to amaze me.  You are also the first graduating class who never experienced life at Kilbourne without having Lexi at school as a therapy dog and oh my how you have loved her!  I appreciate that very much.

It didn't matter if you had grown up in Worthington or you moved here part-way through, each of you has made an impact on Kilbourne.  Thank you again for allowing me to share in your journey.  The best is ahead of you!  Never doubt that you have the ability to achieve any dream and goal you set for yourself.  Please believe in yourself and always know that I am here, behind you, supporting and believing in you too.  I hope you will stay in touch and keep me posted on what is happening in your life.

Love,
Miss Abbott

Worthington Thoughts

I love working at Worthington Kilbourne High School.  I have a job that allows me to interact with the most incredible people.  In you I see courage, strength, dedication, fight, passion, excitement, and so much more!  Every day you find ways to overcome challenges and celebrate successes.  I love watching when you are being there for one another to support those around you.

There is never a day when I am not inspired by my current and former students!  And lately there have been a few public stories that bring this reality to the forefront.

This past Friday, 10TV recognized and honored Jack Begley as being their Athlete of the Week!  What a well-deserved and exciting honor for Jack who is a cross country, swimming, and track athlete and all-around great student and person.

Check out the story about Jack here!

Unfortunately, last Friday is also when a 2016 WKHS Graduate, Drew George, found out that his cancer had returned.  Drew and his family have lots of connections throughout the Worthington community.  He has always been an inspiration with his positive outlook and non-stop fighting spirit.  If anyone can beat cancer for the 3rd time it is Drew.  Yesterday the WKHS staff and many students joined together to support Drew by wearing orange to remind the community that we are #DrewStrong and that we are united behind him and his family as he fights cancer.

Jack and Drew are just two public faces that demonstrate the best of Kilbourne and represent reminders of why I am so thankful to work here and with all of you!  Please know that even though you might not be publicly celebrated as an Athlete of the Week or have the school wearing orange as a sign of solidarity while you face your personal life battles, it doesn't mean that you are not cared about deeply and completely.  Please remember that I am here to support and celebrate with you during your successes and battles and that whatever it is you are accomplishing or the difficulties you are facing matter!

Ryan's Amazing 30 Years

I want to introduce you to my friend, Ryan.  Prior to getting my Master’s degree in counseling I worked at an organization called Lifeline of Ohio.  Lifeline of Ohio is an organization that promotes and coordinates organ donation.  Through my job there I was able to meet and work with lots of incredible people and Ryan was one of those individuals.

Ryan was a sophomore in high school when he suddenly became sick and needed a heart transplant.  On Wednesday, Ryan reached a major milestone – his 30-year transplant anniversary!  Today there was a party to celebrate this momentous event.

Sylvia, Marie, & Ryan

Ryan has lived every day of his last 30 years to it’s fullest.  He knows that he is fortunate to be alive today – something all of us should embrace, but it is a lesson he knows he wouldn’t have if it weren’t for his donor and the gift of life.  During today’s party Ryan said, “Today is special, but EVERY day is special and having all of you in my life makes each day extra special.”  Since his transplant, Ryan graduated from high school as his school’s valedictorian, he attended the Ohio State University, he met, fell in love, and married his wife, Marie, he celebrated as his family grew to include a beautiful little girl, Sylvia, he enjoys travel and his competitive nature pushes him as he participates in the Transplant Games, he volunteers his time to share the importance of organ donation, he was selected to help carry the Olympic Torch, and so much more.  But the reality is, Ryan is just a normal guy.  He loves his wife, daughter, and dog.  He is dedicated to his parents, brother and nephews (who happen to be past, current and future WKHS students).  He works hard at his job which he enjoys.  He cheers enthusiastically for the Buckeyes.  And yet today reminded me of just how much of a MIRACLE Ryan is and what an incredible gift it is that he is alive. 

30 years!  This is a huge milestone.  Ryan is one of the longest living heart recipients in the country.  He has been a part of my life for so long now that it is hard to imagine that had he not received his transplant I never would have met him.  If he didn’t receive his transplant I wouldn’t have had the chance to make silly faces with his daughter at today’s party.  I am a better person because I have been blessed with his friendship.  I believe that if the nearly 100 people who celebrated today were asked, they would all have said the same thing.  Ryan is someone who has blessed all of our lives and I am forever grateful for the fact that I know him and for the fact that his donor, James, had made the choice to say “yes” to donation.

I hope to try to embrace the simple moments of each day in honor of Ryan.  It is a lesson we should all try to emulate.  I can assure you that while some of you have really hard things that you have to go through in your lives, you can set your goals high, work hard, and achieve any dream – just like Ryan did.

#ThereForMe

What an awesome day!  Today several hundred students and staff members took the time to thank someone (or multiple someones) who have been there to help them.  If you haven't seen the pictures - be sure to check them out on Twitter @wskhswolves or on Instragram @wkhs_counselors and be sure to follow both of those social media accounts.

I loved being able to watch as students realized that someone else had selected them as their person to thank and how often the other person would say, "no, but I'm thankful for you" and that is the reality.  Often times we think other people are there for us and that we need them (which is 100% true), but we don't always recognize that we are making a difference in the lives of those around us too... and it is powerful to remember that because we all have an impact on everyone that we interact with every day - and we are responsible for determining what kind of an impact (positive or negative) we will have.

Thank you to all of the students (and staff) who participated.  If you missed out on today's event, don't forget that you can always thank someone in person, with a note, or hop on social media and post your thanks with #thereforme because while the Kilbourne specific time of doing this has passed, it is a message which knows no bounds.

While we were celebrating the power of connection in big and small ways this is also the theme of this week's National Suicide Prevention week.  As a result, I'd like to remind you that by being willing to have real conversations and to be supportive and caring we can help eliminate isolation and feelings of insignificance which can impact many teens.  Each of you matter a great deal and if you are ever struggling with thoughts of not being good enough or feeling as if your life does not matter, please reach out and talk to me or some other adult that you trust.  I do not wnat anyone to ever feel alone with their hurtful thoughts.

I had posted the picture of me with Lexi earlier with our sign of thanking "My Amazing Students" along with several students seeing me taking the picture during lunch today and it resulted in several kids asking me why I'd say that I'm grateful for my students and how are they there for me.  Well, I have a secret for you - I get far more from working with you than you could ever get from me!  Really.  It's true.  You give me strength as I watch you overcome struggles.  You give me hope as you approach each new day.  You give me compassion as I watch you care for those around you.  You give me perspective as I watch you face your own life's difficulties and successes.  Each day, as you allow me to share in your lives, I benefit and become a better person.  You are #thereforme by living your life and coming to WKHS each day.  You are touching my heart in ways you cannot even begin to imagine and I am beyond thankful.  So yes, I absolutely say thanks for being #thereforme to all of my students. 

This is a busy week at WKHS.  Obviously, we had this event today during lunch.  Tomorrow is September 11th which has it's own significance, it is the welcome breakfast for those students who are new to the Worthington school district and it is also an 8 minute homeroom bell schedule.  Wednesday is the Naturalization Ceremony which is an awesome experience for those students who get to participate.  But to me, what stands out about all of these events is how much they are focused on honoring and celebrating the unique contributions of each person who makes up Kilbourne and our community.

Who Will You Thank?

I'm really excited about the event we will be doing tomorrow during lunches.  Tomorrow we will be pausing to say thank you to someone who has made a difference in our lives.  It doesn't have to be for something big - even the smallest acts of kindness make an impact on our hearts.  This celebration of the power of connection reminds all of us that it is important to recognize and appreciate the people who help us and also reminds each of us that we all have the power to make a difference!

I have spent a LOT of time thinking about who I want to thank... and truly, there are so many that it will be hard to select just 1 to thank and I think that is a good thing.  Do I thank the friend who listens to me complain ALL THE TIME when I am frustrated?  What about the person who helps me find my way when I am lost?  Should I thank the friend who helps me to brainstorm solutions when I can't figure out my next step?  Wait, I was focusing on support and thanking friends, but what about my family?  Do I thank my mom for all the times she took care of me and the amazing meals she makes?  Or should it be my sister who does all of my shopping for me since that is something I despise?  Or perhaps it should be my step-dad who would drive 5 hours to spend the weekend helping me do major yard work projects like trimming bushes and mulching?  Then, of course, I have my coworkers who do so much for me and for Lexi.  Ugh, Lexi!  I have to thank Lexi too for all of the love and joy she has brought to my life.  And yet I wouldn't even have Lexi if it wasn't for the support and encouragement of Ms. Adrean and the Counseling Center staff who welcomed the idea that I would be willing to do the work to train a therapy dog so maybe they're the ones I should acknowledge?  But wait, I would hate my job if it wasn't for my students so perhaps it is you who deserve the gratitude for helping to make me feel like my life has a purpose?

Do you see my crazy pattern of thoughts?  Truly, I am so lucky and I am so grateful to all of them and so many, many more.  I should tell people more often how thankful I am to them.  I should express how much of an impact that a hug, an encouraging note, a humorous picture quote, or people believing in me has meant in my life, but I know I don't do a good job of that.  Perhaps that is a strength for you.  But if it isn't, I hope you will still make a concentrated effort tomorrow to select at least 1 person to thank.

Hopefully you have heard the announcements and know this, but what will happen is that we will have an area set up in the commons tomorrow during lunches with dry erase boards, markers, and selfie sticks.  You can write the name of the person you want to thank on the dry erase board, take your picture (and we'll take your picture too) and then post it with the message of "Thanks for being #ThereForMe" as a way to celebrate and appreciate the difference that someone has made in your life.  I hope you will join me in participating in this special event to recognize the powerful connection we share with those around us every day.

Who Does That?!?

Lately I have had so many circumstances arise which repeatedly leave me wondering "who does that?" I will admit that sometimes it is in reference to something stupid I have seen or heard someone do or say and other times it is because of my amazement of the courage, compassion or generosity that I have witnessed. But, no matter if the thoughts originated from positive or negative observations I continue to find myself shaking my head and wondering WHO DOES THAT?!

This weekend I had an awesome opportunity that was full of “who does that” moments. One of my former students who graduated in 2008 got married in Vermont and he invited me to attend his wedding. Who does that – invite a high school staff member to their wedding 10 years after graduation? Evidently, at least for this weekend, the answer to that question of who does that was

Ken & Jamie at their Ketubah Signing Ceremony

Ken Greim. I have so many vivid and heart-filled memories of Ken and his friends and their 5th period lunch visits, of watching him compete in WKHS Ice Hockey, his competitiveness and even his procrastination on completing applications. After graduating from WKHS Ken attended Dartmouth where he rowed on the Crew team and since then has moved to Boston where he and his now wife, Jamie, love to compete in cycling races and going hiking together.  I even had the incredible honor to be invited to join Ken’s parents and brother to see their Ketubah signing (a special ceremony that is a part of a Jewish tradition of signing their marriage contract.)  While there were tons of moments that I loved throughout the weekend, if I was forced to select one as my favorite – it would be their Ketubah signing ceremony – just witnessing up close the precious looks of love that they shared and the vows that they were making to one another was really special.

(L to R): Chris, Bryan, Ken, Eugene, Adam, and Phil (Class of 08)

Ken and Jamie’s love was palpable, and it was an incredible weekend made even more memorable in that 5 of Ken’s high school friends (and my 5^th period lunch visitors) were all there to celebrate this special occasion.  This group of guys is remarkable – they are smart, engaging, and successful.  I loved them when they were in high school and even though I hadn’t seen most of them in a LONG time, I still love them now.  Between the other 5 young men they went to college at OSU, NYU, Notre Dame and University of Southern California and in spite of being spread so far apart across the country they have remained close friends.  (Who does that?)  One of them is now a Doctor in Cincinnati, two are getting their PhD’s – one at UC Berkeley in Chemistry and one at UCLA in Economics, one works as an Actuary in Chicago, and the other works in finance in New York City.  2 of the 6 guys have completed the Boston Marathon and another is training for an Iron Man and biked 100 miles in the Vermont mountains on the morning of the wedding.  (Who does that?)  In case you can’t tell, I had a wonderful time not only being able to enjoy the wedding festivities, but also catching up on all of their lives.

So why am I telling you all of this?  Well, in part just to share a highlight from my summer, but I also want to remind you that while you’re in high school or even 10 or more years beyond, I love celebrating your successes and happy moments just as much as I love being able to be here to support and encourage you on the tough days.  And while I am sure I won’t stop frequently asking myself “Who does that?!”, I am thankful that the response of who does that to sharing your lives with me is each of you!

Diploma Presenter

Have I told you lately about the fact that I believe I have the best job in the world?  How many people are lucky enough to have a job where they get to go to work every day and be surrounded by some of the most incredible people?  And yes, of course, my colleagues are great, but I am referring to my students.

My students are each unique and different.  They have successes and struggles, talents and challenges, and courage beyond measure.  I am so thankful that they allow me to be a part of their lives.  Every day I get to learn from them - how I want to treat others, how I want to be treated, how to push on through difficulties, the power of positivity, the strength that develops from facing heartbreaking experiences, and forever the reminder that there is beauty in brokenness.  I can even admit that some of my students are the people I look up to and admire the most.

It is because of how much respect and appreciation that I have for "my kids" that I can share that one of the most heart-warming experiences I had the honor of participating in this year was to present diplomas to 10 of my seniors.  In case you're not aware, at Kilbourne, we have the tradition where every senior is allowed the option of picking any adult who has been a part of their Worthington educational career (teacher, coach, counselor, etc.) to present them with their diploma.  And of all of the people they could have chosen TEN of them selected me!  And here is the thing - this was incredibly meaningful and rewarding to me, but not because I was the one they selected, but rather because it meant that I got to be a part of their graduation day!  Here is the day that marks their transition away from Kilbourne and on to bigger and better things ahead and I was able to be a part of that moment with 10 of my students!  How incredible!  There is nothing better than being able to lock eyes and share in the pride with a graduate just as their name is about to be called and then to give them a big hug of congratulations before handing them their diploma.

Now, I will admit - one of the downsides is that I selfishly and desperately wanted to have a picture of all 10 of my diploma kids together to frame on my wall in my office.  Unfortunately, every plan to get a group picture ended up falling short.  And believe me... I tried!  (Part of me is still stunned that I wasn't able to pull off the group photo with how much effort the students and I all put in to try to make it a reality.)

And this is a little bit of a funny picture which is still meaningful because the 10 kids knew how badly I wanted the group picture and how miserably I was failing at that goal... so Sam and Jason suggested I take a picture of the 2 of them just in case I couldn't get the rest and they were actually really sweet and made me feel loved in their efforts.  So, in appreciation, I wanted to share that picture.  Thanks guys for being so kind.

After graduation I did end up being able to get a picture of 6 out of the 10 students which truly felt miraculous as it is chaos following the commencement ceremony.  Pictured Left to Right: Tre', Camryn, Jason, Ava, Sam, and Quentin.

And then I tried to get the other 4 kids to come back to school for a group photo on Friday and they all agreed, but then something came up and Mackenzie wasn't able to make it at the last second, but pictured left to right are: Alec, Deane, and David.

To my diploma kids (in alphabetical order) - Quentin Bartram, Mackenzie Bell, Alec Bickell, Sam Biglin, David Boord, Jason Bowen, Ava Burson, Tre' Caesar, Camryn Eagle, and Deane Elliott: Thank you so much for being such a special part of my life.  You have touched my heart in ways that you cannot even begin to imagine.  It has been my joy and my pleasure to be able to watch as you achieved so many goals over the last 4 years.  From achieving success in the classroom or athletic fields/ pool/ ice to applying to college and planning out your futures, I got to be a witness to some of your biggest fears and brightest moments.  Please know that I didn't take any of your experiences which you shared with me for granted.  I appreciate your positivity, kindness, compassion and love for those around you.  I respect your courage, strength, and ability to overcome struggles and disappointments.  I am thankful for the ways you have impacted my life and I cannot wait to see all of the amazing things that are ahead for each of you!  Always know that I believe in you, you are important to me, and I will continue to be here if you ever need me.  Congratulations and thank you, once again, for allowing me to share in your graduation day!

I'm still not completely sure how I got lucky enough to be able to work with kids who touched my life in such a big way that it makes me both sad for me and excited for them to watch them all leave.  It makes me think of the Winnie the Pooh quote, "How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard."  I am incredibly lucky and will forever be thankful that these 10 seniors as well as the rest of their senior class were a part of my life.  I know that bright days are ahead for you and in Worthington they talk often about helping students grow so that they can change the world... please let me assure you - you have already changed my world.  Congratulations and Best Wishes as you continue to spread your impact in the future!

Lexi and Exams

1 more day of exams!!  Are you excited that you just have 2 exams remaining in your year?  Most students have seemed to say that exams haven't been as bad as they had expected which is always encouraging news to me.

Do you know who is NOT excited that there is just 1 day of school remaining?  Lexi.  She is NOT ready for summer and NOT ready for everyone to leave her.  In fact, this week has been quiet in the counseling center except for the breaks and lunch period and she has been acting so sad.  It is kind of comical to watch and lots of the staff who have been around have noticed.  When the door of the counseling center opens she goes running thinking it might be a student there to see her.

So tomorrow, with very little break time between your exams and then everyone leaving for the summer, I anticipate Lexi will be very sad to see you all go, but we will be at the doors so that she can see as many people as possible to say goodbye and get one last "belly rub" before you all leave.  But if you do have a few extra moments or are stressing with your exams, please stop by and see Lexi... and me too of course.