Lead Counselor Explains Journey to World of Counseling

As a large campus, Lamar has a total of seven counselors, but only one has the title of “lead counselor.” Her name is Glenda Simmons.

Simmons has been with Lamar for 10 years and has thoroughly enjoyed her position; one in which she’s been privileged to meet so many students and staff members. 

Her career in education spans 22 years and Simmons sees herself continuing in the field for quite awhile.

“I’ve worked at a lot of different schools with all types of different personalities,” Simmons shares. “But Lamar is a totally different ballpark – I’ve enjoyed being here which is why I’ve been here so long. I’ve met so many wonderful people who are extremely kind and constantly remind me why I love my job so much.”

One doesn’t simply become a high school counselor. It is required that you serve as a teacher before becoming a counselor. Before moving into her role as a counselor – Simmons was a very dedicated Spanish teacher.

“In the beginning of my career I taught at a junior high in Bryan, Texas,” Simmons says. “I also taught at South Oak Cliff High School in Dallas. I went on to be a counselor at Sunset High School, which is also in Dallas.”

In her free time, Simmons loves to read, write, bicycle, hike, swim, and do arts and crafts. She likes to keep herself active and reminiscent about when she used to travel the world. 

“I’ve been to many places in my life.” Simmos says. “I have been through most of Western Europe, China, Vietnam, Mexico, Canada, Costa Rica, and a few countries in the Caribbean Islands. I really enjoyed traveling, especially when I was traveling for my education.”

Simmons spent a good portion of her life traveling and even went out of the country to study. That’s where the love for travel originated.

“I studied a semester in Spain when I was in college,” Simmons says. “After that I spent a month in Berlin after I left college. I attended Texas A&M University for my bachelors degree, Georgetown University in Washington D.C for my masters degree and for my teaching and counseling certifications I went to Texas A&M Commerce.”

Dorian Jensen, a counselor here at Lamar, has worked alongside Simmons for about many years. He speaks fondly about who she is as a person and his experience working with her.

“She is extremely hard working,” Jensen states. “She is always going above and beyond and is always making sure everyone is okay. She is always making jokes and keeping the room bright. I have enjoyed working with her.”