West Elementary guidance counselor Elizabeth Shaddix has taken home a top honor from the Alabama State Board of Education, receiving the distinction of being named Alabama’s elementary school counselor of the year for 2018-2019.

Shaddix, who’s taught at West Elementary for more than a decade, was recognized Thursday by the state board for her service at the elementary school level, alongside an Elmore County counselor who earned the same honor at the secondary school level. 

 West Elementary principal Jay Page said Thursday Shaddix has made a difference in the lives not only of students, but in the lives of the school’s parents and faculty. 

“She’s just a very integral part of our school, and I can’t say enough positive things about Elizabeth Shaddix — and I think if you talk to any of our parents or faculty you’d hear the same thing,” said Page. 

In addition to serving as the school’s guidance counselor for the past several years, Shaddix also has taught 2nd grade and 5th grade at West Elementary.

“We’re very fortunate to have her at West Elementary,” said Page. ”She’s a nationally board certified counselor — one of two instructors we have at West Elementary who have gone through the rigorous process to earn national board certification — and she’s a vital part of just about everything we do, every day.”

Benjamin Bullard can be reached by phone at 256-734-2131 ext. 145.