Shelby McCorkle strives to help her students every day

by Anicko Griffin

Counselor Shelby McCorkle greets her students with a smile, answering questions they and others may have for that day.

“Hey girl! How can I help?”

McCorkle carries herself like any other person at Jeff High. Most people would never notice the hundreds of students’ pain, dilemmas, and anger she carries with her every day.

Although it seems difficult, McCorkle completes her job with a positive demeanor.

Some may see McCorkle as just another staff member. It’s invisible to the blind eye that she has been a school counselor for just over 14 years, finding her job the most enjoyable and important thing to her after her two kids. 

“I love working with kids. It’s never boring, and you all bring something new to the table every day. Are there things I would change about it? Yes, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world,” stated McCorkle.

McCorkle plans on being a JHS counselor until retirement.

“I genuinely want to help every student who comes through my door and help change their life for the better.” 

McCorkle’s father was in education as well. She also took the counselor career path.

“Now more than ever, a lot is going on with family, school, and teachers, and it’s important for everyone to have their safe space,” said McCorkle.

Her students appreciate her dedication.

“She always makes my day better,” said junior Brooklynn Weston. ”No matter what the topic is, she always knows what to say.”

McCorkle is always trying to gain students’ trust and give them a safe space. She genuinely values her job, and helping students with their next big step is a priority to her. 

“I love helping students figure out what path they want to take when they get out of high school. The person they are changes so much between 14 and 17, and I love being able to be there every step of the way.”