The Birmingham City Schools 2024-25 Counselor of the Year is Quentin Jackson of Green Acres Middle School.
Mr. Jackson was recognized during the Birmingham Board of Education meeting on Feb. 10.
"It is with great pride that we recognize Mr. Jackson for his hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the students at Green Acres Middle School. His passion for student success is evident in the relationships he builds, the guidance he provides, and the positive impact he has on the entire school community," said Dr. Taqua Lewis, Coordinator of Guidance and Counseling for Birmingham City Schools. "Mr. Jackson is truly an asset to the BCS School Counseling Department, consistently going above and beyond to support students' academic, social, and emotional growth. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, and it is with great honor that we celebrate him as the BCS 2024-2025 School Counselor of the Year."
A counselor for Birmingham City Schools for five years, he became a school counselor because he says there are not enough males in the profession, as well as a lack of African-American males who can demonstrate to students that they can become whatever they dream to be. He hopes that students dream to become a trusted adult and they know that they have trusted adults and educators to show students how to navigate the challenges of adolescence, early childhood relationships and career development.
According to Green Acres Middle School Principal Tarria Walters, “Counselor Jackson works tirelessly to build genuine connections with each student, creating a safe welcoming space, where students feel valued and understood. One of his many strengths is the ability to listen and provide personalized guidance that empowers students to overcome challenges and realize their potential. Mr. Jackson is known throughout the building, as the gentle giant, who loves, respects and provides a listening ear to all.”
One initiative that Mr. Jackson has created is called Inspiration Nation, a male mentoring small group. The group meets monthly inside the school walls with mentoring sessions, where various men from the community come and encourage our young males to set personal and professional goals, develop emotional intelligence, and navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence. Through these sessions, students can learn effective communication, conflict, resolution and self-awareness while providing an opportunity to learn and love themselves.
Mr. Jackson's favorite quote is, “If you look good, you feel good.” Mr. Jackson believes that exposure is the key. He believes in exposing scholars to the possibility of what can be next for them in the future and guiding them to whom and what they want to be in life. He believes wholeheartedly that the school counseling program should address all the needs of the scholars to help them navigate the complexities of their lives.
Mr. Jackson believes in collaborating with teachers, administrators, parents and community stakeholders to create a supportive network for students to meet the needs of students, socially, emotionally and academically. He provides an outlet for all students to know. There is a support system inside the school. And he not only provides students with essential tools for academic, emotional success, but also fosters a greater sense of community and belonging.