• Welcome to the PJHS Counseling Department- Mrs. Gates

    My name is Kelly Gates and I am honored to be your child’s Counselor at Priceville Junior High School.  I am originally from Birmingham, Alabama. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology.  I have six years of experience in child welfare and forensic interviewing and two years of experience in Community Mental Health Counseling.  This is my 9th year at PJHS.  I am married to my college sweetheart and fortunate to have two terrific sons.  I have grown to love this community and the people who make it such an enjoyable place to live.  I have a passion for working with children and helping them achieve academic success. I will assist your child on an individual basis as personal, social, emotional and academic issues arise.  I am responsible for conducting large group guidance sessions focusing on various topics such as decision-making, test/study strategies, goals, careers, social skills, bullying/kindness, and building a positive character.

    As a Junior High School Counselor, I work closely with students, teaching staff, parents/guardians, and specialists.  If a need arises, I can make referrals to outside agencies to assist our students. I am responsible for the registration, scheduling and withdrawal of students, along with their cumulative folders and confidential records.  I am also the building test coordinator for standardized testing that includes the administration of the Scantron in fall & spring for grades 5-8 and ACAP Spring Testing. I am also on several teams and committees within the school.    

    I conduct an introductory guidance lesson at the beginning of the year with each student in a classroom setting.  During this lesson I explain the Counseling program, introduce myself and allow students time to ask questions.

    As a School Counselor, I perform the following roles in order to promote positive development in academic, career, and personal/social domains:

    • Individual counseling (temporary, as-needed basis)
    • Small group counseling (grief groups, various support needs)
    • Classroom guidance (i.e. Large group counseling)
    • Attend and participate in academic intervention meetings
    • Organize and administer standardized state testing
    • Observe students in various school environments
    • Consult and collaborate with parents, teachers, administrators &students
    • Respond to school crises or emergency situations
    • Provide information and resources to parents on a variety of issues

    I am available most days if you or they need to talk with me.  I keep a calendar outside of my door with my schedule posted. I do attend several professional development meetings and Central Office trainings throughout the year, so I am not always on campus.  I maintain an open-door policy and welcome parents, students and community members to contact me anytime they have a question or concern. I am most easily accessed via email- ktgates@morgank12.org.  Please feel free to contact me or just come by and say hello! I look forward to getting to know you and your child this year. Go Bulldogs!!! ☺ 

    Sincerely,

    Kelly Gates

    PJHS Counselor
Guidance