Kathryn Pool

I attribute my success to the guidance and encouragement of an exceptional mentor, Dr. Jackson, who played a pivotal role early in my career. She inspired me to return to school and complete my degree while helping me recognize the importance of growth, leadership, and continued learning. My passion for supporting students and ensuring they receive the guidance and care they need has been a driving force throughout my career. Through her mentorship, I learned how to elevate my impact, advocate for others, and continue striving for excellence in everything I do.

The best career advice I have ever received is to always consider another person’s perspective before responding and to truly listen to what they are saying. I have learned that effective communication begins with understanding, and often, people simply want to feel heard and valued. By taking the time to listen with empathy and approach conversations thoughtfully, I have been able to build stronger relationships, provide better support, and create more meaningful connections in both my professional and personal life.

The advice I would give to young women entering my industry is to prioritize their education and continue investing in their professional development. In this field, earning a degree can open doors and create opportunities for growth and advancement. My own career progression accelerated when I returned to school and began furthering my education. I would also encourage them to recognize that every student and situation is unique. Success requires flexibility, empathy, and the ability to adapt your approach to meet people where they are while providing the support they need to thrive.

One of the biggest challenges in my field is navigating the different expectations and perspectives among our partners, particularly when working with Independent School Districts (ISDs), students, and families. While we value collaboration, we must also follow state guidelines and established Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs), which can sometimes create challenges when expectations do not align with available options or requirements. Another challenge is helping parents understand the transition of responsibility when a student enrolls in college-level courses, as privacy regulations may limit our ability to communicate directly with them. At the same time, these challenges present opportunities to strengthen communication, provide clearer guidance, and continue building partnerships that support students’ success and independence.

The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are patience, compassion, and advocacy. I value my children and the students I serve, and I approach supporting students with the same care and dedication that I would provide to my own family. I believe every individual deserves encouragement, guidance, and the opportunity to achieve more than they may have thought possible. I also believe that mistakes are not failures but valuable life lessons that help us learn, grow, and become stronger. These values guide me in creating a positive impact and empowering others to reach their full potential.