Penny Knight
High School Counselor
Joshua ISD
Joshua, TX USA
“There is no greater reward that working in education, especially as a school counselor. It is a calling not a career.”
Milestones
My road in life has been direct.
I went to East Texas State University right out of high school. I had no idea what to do or how to do it. I dropped out during 2nd semester.
I started working at a local doctor's office in medical records. A Navy recruiter came in and asked me why I wasn't in college at 18 yrs old. We talked and I enlisted.
I served in the US Navy as a Hospital Corpsman for 5 years. While on active duty I earned my Bachelors of Science degree in Liberal Arts.
After my time served in the Navy I enrolled in the Masters of Education program at East Carolina University. I became certified to teach in 4th-8th grade. I taught 6th grade in North Carolina 1 year.
I moved to Texas and taught 4th / 5th grade for 4 years in Royse City. I then went on to Joshua and taught 4th grade for 8 yrs.
I went to Region 1o Service Center while teaching and earned my School Counselor certification.
While teaching I earned my Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. I had wanted to leave the classroom, but stay connected with students and education.
I was hired as the counselor for New Horizon High School which is an accelerated high school for at-risk students. I'm in my 3rd year and have finally found my place.
Education
High School
Royse City High School
Royse City High School
Certification/License
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services
Region 10 Service Center
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services
Region 10 Service Center
Career
High School Counselor
I work with high school students on college and career readiness as well as social-emotional learning.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Education
Armed Services
Helping People
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for everyone
Make a list of wants and needs. What is your main goal? What are your priorities? Start researching and talking to others that have experience.
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Society in General:
"I heard that you won't make enough money in education compared to work that you put in. I heard that teaching was what people chose when their other careers didn't work out. "
