Although most students might think that all guidance counselors do is change lunch periods or rearrange schedules, the contrary is true. Terri Hensley, Plant High School’s new guidance counselor, demonstrates the considerable effort involved in the role. Being a guidance counselor is more than just handling schedule requests. Every student is unique, which means counselors use discretion and care to meet the needs of each individual Panther.
Hensley said her experience at Plant so far has been positive.
“All of the interactions here at Plant so far have been very friendly and the adults are very helpful, but what surprised me the most was the politeness and respect of the students,” Hensley stated.
Although guidance counselors have a tough job assisting so many students, it is easier when students are cooperative, kind and can clearly communicate their needs.
When asked about her qualifications, Hensley said, “I have two degrees: a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Tennessee and a master’s degree in school counseling from Florida Gulf Coast University.” Despite Hensley having a thorough collegiate background, she also has an extensive background in the school system. Before she became a guidance counselor, Hensley worked as an analyst at a financial planning firm for 25 years.
When Hensley was asked what convinced her to switch over to the school system, she said that “Whenever I would take my kids to school or volunteer there I would feel such a strong connection to the kids and the environment, I knew I didn’t want to teach but I always liked the counseling aspect.”
Although Hensley typically works with students whose last names fall between the initials Sap and Z, she is available to anyone who needs guidance or support.
Lisa Poirier, who is also a guidance counselor at Plant, said working with Hensley has been a positive experience. “It’s been great. She brings expertise from her previous school district and is eager to learn the way things work here at Plant,” Poirier said.
This quality makes Hensley an asset at Plant. Her many years in education have given her valuable experience in addressing the problems students face and finding solutions.
Although Hensley only recently moved back to Tampa, she grew up here. As soon as she saw that Plant was hiring a new guidance counselor, she applied for the job at a school ranked among the top in the county.
Lauren Moseley, the college and career counselor at Plant, said she was excited to welcome Hensley to the team.
“We were so happy to bring Hensley on as part of our team,” Moseley said. “She truly has such a kind and calming personality, and it seems like she greatly enjoys working with students and families.”
Hensley said she wants students to know her office is a resource beyond schedule changes. “You don’t have to wait until something is wrong to visit your counselor,” she said.
With her experience, positive energy and dedication to students, Hensley is ready to make an impact at Plant High School.
