GWINNETT COUNTY, GA—Crews Middle School Lead Counselor Shayla Thompson has been named the Georgia School Counselor of the Year by the Georgia School Counselor Association (GSCA).
The Georgia School Counselor of the Year award recognizes school counselors who strive to be model citizens of their community, the school counseling community, and their broader professional community. They maintain high moral standards in their personal and professional conduct, and implement comprehensive, data-driven school counseling programs that support students’ career, social/emotional, and academic developmen
“I’m incredibly grateful for this recognition, especially knowing I work alongside so many amazing and dedicated counselors. This experience and award aren’t just about me. It’s truly built on the support of so many leaders and colleagues who have walked with me throughout my career,” Thompson says.
Crews Middle staff, Brookwood Cluster SuperintendentKeith Thompson, and members of the Office of Counseling, College and Career Services recently surprised Thompson with a banner and flowers, making this celebratory announcement with the help of GSCA President Gabrielle Brundidge.
“Shayla’s dedication to our students and community is truly inspiring. She leads with empathy, ensuring every student feels seen, heard, and valued,” said Crews Middle Principal Cindy Moffett. “By fostering strong relationships with staff and families, she enhances student well-being, success, and connectedness. Shayla embodies the spirit of excellence and care that defines Crews Middle School.”
Thompson was also named the 2025 Counselor of the Year at Crews Middle and Counselor of the Year for the Brookwood Cluster. In addition, she was named the 2025 Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) Middle School Counselor of the Year in February.
The Georgia School Counselor of the Year award recognizes school counselors who strive to be model citizens of their community, the school counseling community, and their broader professional community. They maintain high moral standards in their personal and professional conduct, and implement comprehensive, data-driven school counseling programs that support students’ career, social/emotional, and academic development.
“I’m especially grateful to the students and staff at Crews Middle School who have trusted and believed in me, even if my ideas are out of the box,” Thompson adds. “My hope is that everyone I’ve had the privilege of working with knows everything I do is with the heart of serving students first.”
The GSCA is a professional non-profit organization of school counselors at various levels whose mission is to support school counselors in the state of Georgia while also improving student academic, career, and social-emotional development.