Becker Schools had reason to celebrate last week, as Julie Fox was honored as the Minnesota Middle School Counselor of the Year.

Fox, a long-time employee of Becker Public Schools, received the honor last Monday at the Minnesota School Counselor Association’s annual convention in Duluth, MN.

Fox was nominated for the award last spring by a committee of colleagues, parents and students for her exemplary work ethic and the amazing concern shown for her students and co-workers. For many years, Mrs. Fox was the only school counselor at BMS, meaning her caseload approached 700 students.

Principal Chantel Boyer sang the praises of her counselor in a nomination letter that highlighted the many roles Fox fills at the school.

“I have consistently witnessed her unwavering commitment to the academic, emotional, and social well-being of our students,” Boyer wrote in the letter. “Julie possesses a rare combination of compassion, professionalism, and innovative thinking that truly sets her apart.”

In addition to being an amazing counselor, Fox also serves as an integral part of the middle school’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) committee that has earned the school state-wide recognition. Boyer also stressed Fox’s work with the adult staff in her building.

“In addition to her outstanding work with students, Julie serves as a valuable mentor and resource for colleagues,” Boyer said in her letter. “With her teaching background, she offers a wealth of resources and expertise, enriching the professional growth and development of our entire staff.”

Connie Robinson, a Becker School Board member and parent, also had high praise for the work Mrs. Fox does in support of her students.

“In addition to the responsiveness to her students, Julie Fox has also contributed significantly to helping her students organize, plan, and follow through to conquer issues they may have,” Robinson wrote in her recommendation. “I firmly believe that she possesses qualities and accomplishments that perfectly align with the criteria for the MSCA School Counselor of the Year.”

Fox and Boyer attended the awards ceremony at the Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center, and Fox delivered an inspiring acceptance speech in which she thanked her colleagues, as well as the many other Minnesota counselors who work tirelessly to support their students. She also gave a nod to the culture at Becker Middle School as playing a part in her winning the award.

“In my opinion, the tremendous support, flexibility, innovative thinking and collaboration that takes place between staff, administration, families and the community make Becker Public Schools the best place to be a school counselor,” Fox told the crowd. “I have enjoyed every day of the past 30 plus years that I have been in education.”

Fox went on to thank the families of the school district for their partnership, and in true fashion noted her students as the real reason she continues to excel in her role.

“Lastly, the students are the heart of everything we do,” Fox concluded at the end of her speech. “Their energy, curiosity, and courage inspire me to work hard each day to make BMS a welcoming, inclusive, positive and a fun place for students to be.”

Congratulations to Julie Fox on her recognition as the best Middle School Counselor in Minnesota!