Brenda Etzold

A good education is multifaceted, requiring proactive parents and dedicated educators. Southeast Missouri has many outstanding educators, and recently one was recognized statewide for her efforts.

Brenda Etzold, the eighth- and ninth-grade counselor at Jackson Junior High School, was the recipient of the 2010 Missouri Middle/Junior High School Counselor of the Year Award. The award was presented by the Missouri School Counselor Association in honor of Etzold's commitment to her students, school and profession. Administrators in Jackson agree, saying the counselor is helpful to students and their parents.

Etzold is credited with taking a leadership role in the implementation of a program that emphasizes time for reading, guided study and tutoring. She visited successful programs in Missouri and Arkansas and brought ideas back from these schools to Jackson.

While Etzold's story is impressive, there are many educators in Southeast Missouri whose efforts are not recognized with an award. These individuals often use their own resources and unpaid time outside the classroom to help their students.

Thank you to all our hard-working and dedicated educators. You are making a difference in the lives of the next generation.