The definition of a “dynamo” is when a machine conducts mechanical energy into electrical energy — essentially creating energy from movement. When thinking of a member of our community who presents these qualities, and proves themself to be machine-like, conducting energy comparable to electricity, there is someone who is at the top of the list. That person is no other than Amy Martin.
Mrs. Martin has been a part of the LCHS Community since her arrival in July 2005 as guidance counselor. Since then, she has taken on the responsibility of guidance counselor at the largest high school in Lawrence County school system, and in The Red Hot News Networks’ opinion, the best and most dedicated high school counselor in the U.S.
From day to day, students see her zooming through the halls, covered in post-it notes, carrying the burdens of students to help them become successful — and she does this all with a smile. As anyone who is her friend will say, there is never anything negative associated with her.
In an interview with Martin, she says she became a counselor because she liked the idea of helping young people find success and happiness. “Giving support and showing love to those in need is a very rewarding job,” says Martin. Support is exactly what she gives — day in and day out.
Next, we asked what she considered her role to be as a counselor. Her answer is specific, and detailed: “Counselors help students find the tools within themselves to be the best version of themselves, and hopefully reach their greatest potential for success. This may include learning life skills like conflict resolution, self-care, communication skills, self-respect, and tolerance… or it may be helping a student make the best decisions about their next step after high school in regard to college and and career readiness.” As one can see, Martin is on her A-game in her job as school counselor and many agree. When compared to other counselors, there is not any other counselor that can compete in the same caliber as Mrs. Martin.
Just by taking a short survey, we asked students passing by in the hallway to state one word that reflects Mrs. Martin. Some of the answers we received included: patient, kind, loving, motherly, and organized.
As one can see, Martin is well-liked by the students and staff at Lawrence County High School. But that isn’t all. Martin is a Red Devil Dynamo because of her continuing efforts in connecting the school to the outside community, as well as parents. We asked Martin her philosophy on establishing a school-community partnership and open atmosphere, and her answer is simple. First and foremost, parents should feel “appreciated, respected, and supported while we work with their children” and the rest will be easy. Martin believes in mass communication with parents, newsletters, meetings, and phones calls in order to provide parents and students with the best experience at LCHS.
Martin considers LCHS home and says that the students who attend are the school’s biggest strength. From the athleticism, intelligence, service, leadership, music programs, artistic ability, kindness, and work ethic, Martin says she is “amazed” at how talented our students are. She believes anything is possible when the students we have are dedicated.
Lastly, we asked Mrs. Martin to describe herself as a person and name someone who inspires her. Martin says her father is her biggest inspiration because of his compassion, wisdom, sense of humor, and Christian example. She says he is a major influence in her becoming a school counselor.
To end, Martin describes herself as blessed and thankful. She considers herself a “Daughter of the King,” a wife to a “fabulous” husband, and a mom to two “amazing” young ladies. In a final quote from Mrs. Martin, she says “her cup runs over” and she considers LCHS to be the best school with the best students… anywhere.
Join us in honoring Amy Martin as this week’s Red Devil Dynamo. Lawrence County High School would not be the same without her unending dedication and community involvement.
LCHS Red Hot News Network 