Hi there! I am absolutely honored and blessed to serve as a Professional School Counselor at Benold Middle School for all 6th-8th grade students with a last name beginning in A-L.

I am a graduate of Texas State University-San Marcos and Angelo State University where I earned my B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies and my M.Ed. in School Counseling. I have 10 years experience in education, with 7 of those years in Georgetown ISD. I began my educational career as a self-contained 5th grade teacher before pursuing a position in departmentalized math instruction. I also supported my campus as a math interventionist and found great joy in building relationships with students, parents, and teachers across all grade levels. Collectively, these experiences set the foundation for my work as a School Counselor, and I am absolutely thrilled to continue growing, leading, and serving in my community.

I truly believe all Benold Middle School scholars are unique leaders and it is my personal mission to guide and support every student in reaching his/her maximum potential. I choose to live by the philosophy that authenticity requires vulnerability, transparency, and integrity. Brene Brown put it nicely when she said “you either walk inside your story and own it, or you stand outside your story and hustle for your worthiness”. Either way, we all have the ability to set the tone for what the next chapter in our story will be. I am passionate about helping students find their inner potential and building on their strengths to choose courage over comfort, regardless of life’s circumstances, obstacles, and/or setbacks. I encourage you to always make it a great day...or not, but ultimately the choice is YOURS!

It is going to be an amazing school year. If you need anything, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I am here for YOU!

Hello! My name is Amanda Smith and I love being a part of the Benold Middle School community as the Professional School Counselor for students with a last name starting with M-Z.

I earned my Bachelors of Art in Psychology from Miami University (Oxford, OH) with a focus on Developmental and Psychopathology. I went on to earn my Masters of Education and Education Specialist degrees in School Counseling from Valdosta State University (Valdosta, GA). I am a National Certified Counselor, as well as hold a School Counseling certificate in Texas and Georgia. I have an article published in the Georgia School Counselor Association Journal, and have received special recognition by both Valdosta State University and the National Board for Certified Counselors for my commitment to the profession. In addition to counseling, I taught Introducation to Psychology and Advanced Placement Psychology at the high school level for several years.

I truly have a passion to assist adolescents learn the coping skills necessary to become successful adults. I firmly believe that when children learn how to self-regulate, they become incredibly empowered and resilient. It is my goal to educate, encourage, guide, and model appropriate coping skills to best support every student.

When I am not working, I spend most of my time with my husband, two children, and dog relaxing, traveling, running, and exploring Texas. I also enjoy scrapbooking, reading, and baking.

I look forward to getting know the students and parents of Benold!