Staff Spotlight: Autumn Zenon-counselor at Lincoln High School

Every week, we’ll shine a spotlight on one Lincoln Public Schools staff member! Get to know the wonderful people making a positive impact across various areas within LPS. This week, meet Autumn Zenon, counselor at Lincoln High School.

“Autumn, who goes by Z to most, has made a huge impact in her new role as a school counselor. She is at total ease with students and families. She operates with a high level of care and empathy, but doesn't mince words with students and holds them to high expectations. If a student is in crisis or simply needs that quick check-in to recalibrate, many seek her out. One of the greatest things about working with her is that she takes her role seriously, but also recognizes the need to laugh and find joy in all the little things that happen throughout the day. Autumn has been making her mark at Lincoln High for a few years in her previous roles, but this year as a counselor, her impact is seen and felt in so many other ways by many more students and families.” Joshua Lupher, Lincoln High School associate principal.

In a few sentences, briefly describe your role at LPS.
I am a first-year counselor at LHS. I also coach the girls basketball team as well. 

How long have you worked for LPS?
In my role as a counselor, this is my first year. I held the attendance interventionist job for five years previously before transitioning into the counseling role.

What inspired you to become part of the education field at LPS?
Inspiration and aspiration: Seeing successful individuals from marginalized or underrepresented groups can inspire others to pursue their goals and dreams. It demonstrates that barriers can be overcome and success is achievable regardless of background.

What has been your favorite part of working here? What aspect of your job do you find most rewarding?
Fostering positive relationships with students and witnessing their growth, maturity and ability to overcome obstacles is one of the most rewarding aspects of being an educator. Working with great colleagues has been an enriching and fulfilling experience.

Did you attend LPS as a student? If so, which school(s)? If not, where are you from?
No, I'm from Dallas, Texas, originally. I graduated from Arlington Bowie High School.

What path did you take after completing your formal education?
I never for a second thought that I'd be a counselor. My plan was to coach at the collegiate level and that started with me being a graduate assistant coach. I received my first master’s degree from Southwest Baptist University in 2018, I was offered a high school JV coaching job at LHS and the rest is history. I started going to class in June of 2020 to work towards my second master’s degree in school counseling.

What do you enjoy most about the Lincoln community?
The LHS community in particular would be the inclusive environment that we foster for all individuals to feel a part of.

Share a shout out to a former teacher who impacted your life.
My junior college basketball coach, Kelly Newton, instilled mental toughness and a willingness to prepare relentlessly and go for whatever it is that you want in life.

Do you know a LPS staff member we should feature for Staff Spotlight? Fill out this form to nominate them!

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