Meet the Staff

Crista Payne, Director of Guidance & Counseling

Mrs. Payne has been in public education for 23 years, and is in her 7th year in the Counseling Department. Her passion is KIDS! She strives to ensure that every student at THS is SEEN and is given the tools necessary to succeed in life. Her favorite part of school counseling is jumping back into the classroom during "Counselor Crash the Class" sessions. She has been married to her husband, Chris, for 17 years, and together they have five children and four grandchildren. Mrs. Payne's favorite vacation spot is the beach, and besides chasing her grandkids, her favorite hobby is reading (on the beach)!

Melissa Smith, Junior High Counselor

Mrs. Smith has been in education for 13 years, and this is her 9th year as a school counselor. This is her 5th year as the Teague Junior High school counselor. Mrs. Smith feels her purpose as a school counselor is to help students navigate challenges, build confidence, and develop skills that empower them both inside and outside the classroom. Her goal is to create a supportive environment where EVERY student feels heard and encouraged to reach their full potential. Mrs. Smith is married to Kevin Smith who teaches at the high school. They have 2 daughters that keep them busy and always on the go.

Lori Sutton, High School CTE Coordinator, Counselor

Mrs. Sutton has been in education for 14 years, and this is her second year in the Counseling Department. She has been married to her husband, Colt, for 13 years and has three children. One of Mrs. Sutton's favorite parts of being a school counselor is guiding students as they explore college and career pathways. She enjoys helping students discover their strengths, set meaningful goals, and create plans for success beyond high school. When she isn't reading a book, you can find Mrs. Sutton catching up on TV Series or having fun with her family!

Anna Pruett, Administrative Assistant

Ms. Pruett has been in education for 16 years, and this is her 4th year in the Counseling Department. She enjoys helping the students and other staff/faculty in any way possible. She has 3 boys and 6 grandchildren...thus far. Her favorite place to be is together! (preferably on the beach)

Michelle Bell, Comunities In Schools

Mrs. Bell has been at Teague High School for 17 years and has worked with Communities In Schools for 11 years. She is married to Earl for 31 years. She is the mother of four children. She is navigating the next chapter of her life. She loves to encourage and uplift students and give students options!

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