Brooke Kirtner– School Counselor

What do you enjoy most about your role at Marshall? The best part about my work is getting to watch students grow over their four years at Marshall. I truly love getting to know a student and their family, supporting their goals, and helping ensure they leave Marshall feeling prepared for their next steps. Calling their names at graduation, while a little nerve-racking, is a real honor!

What's one fun fact students might not know about you? I went skydiving twice. The first time was amazing- so fun- what a thrill!! The second time, I thought to myself, "Hum, maybe twice is enough."

What advice would you give to students about making the most of high school? I believe success in high school comes down to three key things I share with all my freshmen during the Meet the Counselor session: attendance, completing assignments, and asking for help when needed.

If you weren't in education, what would you be doing instead? If I were not a school counselor, I would explore a few other career paths I've always wanted to pursue. I majored in Criminology and have a fascination with true crime. I always wanted to be a crime scene analyst! I also love skin care and would enjoy working in a med spa.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? Egypt- and specifically the Valley of the Kings, the Sphinx, and the Pyramids of Giza.

What is your favorite way to spend a Saturday? Wake up at 8 a.m., go to a cycling or sculpt yoga class, grab a smoothie at South Block, and then head home to get the family and head to a park to explore the great outdoors. Then we'd grab a late lunch/early dinner, go out for ice cream, and head home for an evening around the firepit.

What advice would you give to students about making the most of high school? My best advice to students is not try to be perfect and do it all. Find one or two things you can really grow in and be a part of, and do that to the best of your ability. Your grades will be important, and I want you to do well and see your potential, but I want you to be healthy and enjoy your journey more than anything.

What's one thing you hope students take away from your class or role? I want my students to know that I work really hard behind the scenes to support them- and even if I can't always provide the solution they hope for, we are a team, and your goals are my goals, too!

If you could swap places with a student for a day, what class or activity would you pick? Love this question!! I would take Criminal Justice- the academy program didn't exist when I was in high school (at Centreville HS class of '99!). I'd also enjoy taking a ceramics class, joining the softball team, and checking out a P-Fit class.

If you could give one piece of advice to Marshall's parents, what would it be? Be involved in every way possible. You could read along with your student's English class novel, attend Back to School Night, or reach out to teachers with any questions or needs! Even if you can't physically be in the building for events, the more you can be an active part of the Marshall community, the more you AND your student will benefit.

What's one thing parents can doat home to support their students' success? Have your SIS and Schoology accounts activated and review them weekly. Then talk with your student and help them create timelines and plans to complete their work. Make it a weekly routine.

What do you wish more parents understood about today's high school experience? High school today is different from five years ago, and it is always evolving. What I do love is that students are encouraged more than ever to lean into their interests and follow pathways unique to them. I think there will always be an inclination toward comparisons, but I am seeing more and more students set those aside to make choices that best serve their individual goals.

What would you like the Marshall Community to know about you? I just wanted to add that I really love Marshall, my students, my counseling team, and all the staff I work with. Thanks for the shout-out!