Staff Spotlight: Mrs. Macintosh

Being a student at Mayfair High School can come with a lot of overwhelming questions and decisions that are really unexpected. Having a supportive counselor like Mrs. Macintosh can make such a difference in your life, just as she has made in mine. Mrs. Macintosh is one of the kindest counselors at this school. She is always willing to help students with all their issues and tries her hardest to care for each student she has. She has the ability to make shy kids feel comfortable when they need help. So, if you have the opportunity, get to know her! 

Q: What was your first impression of Mayfair when you came here?

A: “When I first came here, that was eleven years ago, so I can't really remember my first impression. But overall, it felt like family from the very beginning. That is the word that came to my mind when I first came here. My other first impression of the teachers and staff was that they had a lot of Mayfair pride, and a good majority had been here for a really long time. So, because they were here, Mayfair felt like it had a lot of pride and had done so much for the community. But besides that, it felt like they were thirsty in a sense for more spirit and had more energy to improve the feeling of the school.”

Q: What is your favorite thing about the students this year at Mayfair?

A: “My favorite thing about the students this year is that I feel the most school spirit I have felt during my entire time here. I especially like that the seniors this year are leading the way, influencing the other classes to have fun and to enjoy school. I honestly love that. You guys are so excited about making this a good year, and you're happy to be here. So because you are making those connections, I really do love the senior class, and I love seeing the spirit that you guys are showing this year.”

Q: Five years from now, what would you love to see yourself and Mayfair accomplish?

A: “I think that Mayfair is on an upward trend. Even though Mayfair has its ups and downs, I see a strong effort to make things better for all students, no matter what. The culture, spirit, and school events feel much more deeply embedded now. I hope this carries over into the future to keep students excited about traditions and school activities, allowing everyone to learn more about each other and themselves. This environment excites kids to come to school, wanting to do better in class and improve their mindsets. In five years time, along with seeing our academic numbers rise, I hope to see more students wanting to challenge themselves by taking honors and AP classes to overall better themselves. That is what I would like to keep seeing in the five years from now: continuous improvement.”

Q: What is something you have learned from working with students 

A: “I think students really just want to be heard, valued and cared for. Honestly, that just means sitting here, waiting, and listening to their stories - letting them know that they are valued and important just as they are. Knowing that someone cares for them goes a long way. They should know that there is always someone on campus for them. I think especially this year, when my caseload has changed, I got all of these new students. However, the students that I used to have still come in and say hi, tell me they miss me, and express that they feel sad about the change. It makes me feel like I really did have an impact on them, and it makes my day. You don't realize it when you just keep working with them, but when I'm not there anymore, it makes me realize - even if I'm not their counselor - they still come in and say hi or they say that they miss me. It makes me feel like being there, listening to them, and helping them really did have an effect, and that’s all I want my students to feel.”

Mrs. Macintosh is one of those people who can make a really simple conversation feel so much better and brighter, even if you're having a bad day. Her kindness and caring personality makes her a wonderful counselor and one of the most amazing people to go to for help. Even if you feel like no one hears you, I can confidently say she will. I am so lucky to have had her, and even more happy that other students get to experience her love and care for everyone at Mayfair. Thank you, Mrs. Macintosh, for always being there for everyone and for everything you do for this school. 

Image Courtesy of Mrs. Macintosh.