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School counselors are known for helping students develop in the classroom and in the plans for the future, and they also play a vital role in making sure students' personal lives are also on track.

Great Falls High School student Kalli McGregor experienced first-hand how a counselor can help, after losing her mother last year.

Kalli said, "Ever since the counseling department helped me out, it's been easier. I can talk and I can just get on with my life." She added, "I can wake up in the mornings and things are fine now. Things will never be the same...but definitely better."

Kalli is just one of many students experiencing a variety of problems outside academics that has found a confidant in the counseling system.

GFHS counselor Kathy Van Tighem explained, "Not only are we concerned with their academic success and career plans, but we also want to make sure we provide opportunities to have their needs met when it comes to personal and social issues as well."

She says counselors are constantly consulting with one another to offer the best resources to resolve student needs, but noted that sometimes it can't all be done in the office.

Kathy said, "We try to meet their needs and take care of the issues if we can. If not, we act as a resource for them to connect up with a variety of different organizations and resources in the community to help them with whatever needs they have."

Kalli says the resources available to her through the school counselors have made a world of difference in her life, and encourages other students to overcome the reticence often associated with opening up and expressing your feelings.

Kalli said, "You can get on with your everyday life, and it's a lot easier if you talk about it."