Schools salute district’s lead counselor

SMITHFIELD — Kim Lewter is the Johnston County Public Schools’ Employee of the Year for Curriculum, Instruction and Accountability.

Lewter is the district’s lead counselor, a post she had held for two of her 18 years with the district.

Lewter grew up in Garner and attended N.C, State University as an N.C. Teaching Fellow, a scholarship program for aspiring STEM and special education teachers. She later earned a master’s degree in school counseling from Campbell University.

Being a school counselor wasn’t on her radar initially. In high school, Lewter loved science, specifically biology, and planned on teaching that. “I enjoyed public school and knew I wanted to be involved in that work,” she said.

One day during an enrichment class at NCSU, a Johnston County school counselor came to speak about the role of counselors in schools. At the time, Lewter was captivated by the psychology class she was taking. That interest, coupled with the school counselor’s visit, prompted Lewter to shift her focus.

In 2006, after graduating from Campbell, she bought a house in Johnston County because of its proximity to the mountains, coast and family. A job opportunity came available with the school district, and Lewter began her career at West Johnston High, where she spent four years as the school counselor. Then in 2010, Cleveland High opened its doors, and she spent 12 years there.

Now as lead counselor, Lewter shares her knowledge and expertise with counselors throughout the district. Being in the schools for most of her career, Lewter said she knows how hard everyone is working to help children succeed. Additionally, over the last two years in the Curriculum, Instruction and Accountability Department, she has seen the intentional ways her colleagues support children.

The most fulfilling part of her role is helping students with scholarships, internships, apprenticeships and even classes that spark their interest in potential careers, Lewter said. “I enjoy connecting students with opportunities they may not have known about or not have been able to access,” she said.

Lewter recalled one student who needed help paying for college. With her help, this student applied for a scholarship, which he got, and attended Elon University. He went on to Harvard, earning a master’s degree, and is now working on his doctorate at NCSU.

In an article about him, the student thanked the school counselor who helped him get a scholarship. “It will change generations in my family,” he said.

The profession has many dynamics that are critical to students’ success, Lewter said. She sees herself as a concierge, assisting students with post-secondary educational options, parking, yearbooks and lockers.

Another major role is supporting students and families facing mental health challenges. “School counselors are there to support all the pieces that make up a student,” Lewter said. “The trust that families and students place in you is invaluable.”

Lewter knows she can make a difference in the lives of students, their families and, ultimately, the community.

Even though the school district is growing, Lewter feels a closeness throughout the schools. “We still have that small feel where you can pick up the phone and call anyone to answer questions,” she said.

Being accessible to the school counselors is important to her, Lewter said. Even if she is in a meeting, she will step out to take their calls so they feel supported.

Lewter said she shares the award with the 100 counselors she oversees. “I always want to deflect that praise back to them because they are where it’s happening,” she said. “The profession’s goal is to be a proactive leader in schools to impact change in individuals’ lives.”

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