Hi! I’m Amy Smith, the School Counselor for last names A-E and the Career Development Coordinator (CDC) for grades 9-12. I am the contact for internships, career events, industry credentials, and all things associated with career exploration and planning. I was the first person in my family to attend college, beginning my post-secondary journey at Vance Granville Community College (AA), then transferring to Appalachian State University where I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology and ultimately a Master’s degree in School Counseling.  I am Nationally Board Certified in School Counseling. 

Hello Pioneers! My name is Dan Crail. I am the school counselor for student’s with the last name F-L. I’m originally from Ohio, but am now happy to call Boone home. Aside from helping students navigate high school and beyond- I love the mountains, hiking/trail running, and salamanders. 

Hi! I am the school counselor for last names M-R.  I am excited to be a part of the Pioneer Family!  I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from Elon University and my Master of Arts in Professional School Counseling from Appalachian State University.  I have previously worked for Buncombe County Schools and Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, but am happy to have returned to Watauga County. I look forward to connecting with students and families as they navigate high school and post secondary plans.

I’m Molly Welch, a school counselor working with students with the last names S-Z.  This is my first year at Watauga High School but my 16th year as a school counselor.   I spent the last 15 years living and working in the DC Metro area.  Prior to becoming a school counselor, I worked in higher education at multiple universities.  I’m originally from the Pacific Northwest and attended the University of Oregon for my bachelor’s where I majored in Spanish and played Division One soccer - Go Ducks!  I earned my master’s in Counseling at Marshall University (in West Virginia).  I love the mountains, watching college football, and adventure!  

Hi! I’m Jenn Wandler and I am the school social worker.  I have been able to serve WHS for 15 years. I grew up in Boone and consider it an honor to work at the high school I also graduated from.  I graduated with my Bachelors degree from Berea College and my Master of Social Work (MSW) from East Tennessee State University.  I am also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).  Prior to working at WHS I was a Child and Adolescent Therapist.  As a school social worker I connect home, school, and community.  I truly enjoy partnering with students and families to provide support and resources which I believe improves student attendance and promotes academic success. 

I am Shelly Klutz and serve as a school nurse for Watauga High School, Watauga Innovative Academy, Watauga Virtual Academy and as Lead Nurse for Watauga County Schools. As a school nurse, I provide case management for students with chronic health conditions to ensure students are in the least restrictive setting while being able to manage their medical condition.  I provide care for acute situations that occur within the school setting and educate students on how to manage their health care needs.  As Lead Nurse I serve as a liaison to other health organizations as well as provide guidance to school administrators and school nurses on health service policies, procedures, and other acute situations.  I currently serve as the President of the School Nurse Association of North Carolina where I advocate for the school nurse profession.  I received my Associates in the Science of Nursing at Caldwell Community College and my Bachelor in the Science of Nursing at Lees McRae College.  I am beginning my 16th school year with Watauga County Schools and would not want to be anywhere else.  

I am Karen Norris, the GEAR UP Coordinator for Watauga County Schools. GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) is a federally funded college access program designed to increase the number of students who are prepared to enter and succeed in post-secondary education immediately after high school. I have extensive experience in working in North Carolina Public Schools as a teacher, program specialist and an instructional coach. I am a graduate of Gardner Webb University with a MA in School Administration and BS in Human Services- Social Work and NCDPI Teaching Certificate in Special Education. My husband, Mark Norris (WHS alumni), and I have recently moved back to the high country in 2023 to Todd, NC. I love outdoor hobbies: hiking, tubing the New River and planning daytrips and traveling.  

As Registrar I maintain and update student records and ensure the integrity and privacy of student data.  Prior to joining the Student Services team in 2018, I held various positions at Antioch University, Brooks Institute and the University of South Dakota. My educational background includes a BA from University of NC-Chapel Hill and an MA from Appalachian State University. 

College & Career Adviser - graggco@wataugaschools.org

Hi there! My name is Courtney Gragg and I am the College & Career Adviser. I was born and raised in the High Country and love Watauga county. I graduated from Appalachian State with my bachelor's in Psychology with a Health Concentration. I am so excited to be back at Watauga working with the best students and staff.

Student Services Administrative Assistant - lees@wataugaschools.org

Hello! My name is Sierra Lee and I am the Student Services Administrative Assistant. I grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina but I now call Jefferson, NC home. I graduated from the University of West Georgia in 2023. Outside of work I love baking, spending time with my cats, and crocheting! I look forward to serving the students and families at Watauga High School and Innovation Academy