Jacob Omlor: School of Dreams Academy School Staff Member of the Year

Jacob Omlor has been named School of Dreams Academy’s School Staff Member of the Year. He holds a master’s degree of education in school counseling.

He has been working as a counselor for seven years, since 2018. He works with students from kindergarten through fifth grade.

Why did you choose teaching as a career?

“I always knew I wanted to work with people in some manner. Originally, I attended Ohio State for pre-physical therapy, but the more I got involved the more I realized it was not my cup of tea. I initially explored the idea of school counseling because of an uncle of mine, who was a teacher and then counselor for many years.

“I decided to apply for master’s programs for counseling and ultimately chose school over clinical because in the school setting I can just talk to students who are having rough moments without needing to go through insurance and diagnosing.”

What brings you the most joy in counseling?

“I definitely have the most joy when I am working with the students directly. In counseling school we were always told to advocate for not doing duties, but I have learned to enjoy those times!

“In the morning, you get to greet the students with high fives and then, during lunch and recess duties, you get to interact with the students and really get to know them. There’s also a bunch of teachable moments that can be circled back to classroom lessons, too! This also helps the students become familiar with me and builds rapport, which is essential for counseling!”

How do you inspire your students to learn?

“John Maxwell’s famous quote, ‘Students don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care,’ encapsulates my philosophy for approaching how I work with students. I try my best to make students feel seen and heard.

“Through daily interactions, I try to give them something they can smile about that can make their day even slightly better. They know they can banter with me and if the going gets rough, my door is open for them to be able to work through their difficulties, no matter how large or small.”

What is your reaction to being named School Staff Member of the Year?

“‘Oh shoot, does this mean I have to do an interview?’ Ha! But it was definitely a surprise. Awards or accolades are not something I usually think about or aim for, per se. I just try to do my best and do what I can to help around the school and of course, working with the students, because that is what I enjoy doing the most. It is nice to be recognized, though! I’m looking forward to another great and fun upcoming school year!”