The West Virginia Chamber Foundation announced Jennifer Pickett, a counselor at McNinch Primary School, as one of the five finalists for 2027 West Virginia School Counselor of the Year (COY).

Pickett has served as a school counselor in Marshall County since 2005. She began her journey after earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Wheeling University. She also earned a Master of Arts in Community Counseling from West Virginia University. During her counseling internship at the Belmont County (Ohio) alternative program, Pickett served as the senior high therapist for the alternative high school classroom. Throughout her career, she has impacted countless students across the county, serving at several schools before establishing long-term roots at McNinch Primary School.

Pickett finds it especially fulfilling to work with students in their early, formative years. She focuses heavily on safety, emotion regulation and character education, while also highlighting the importance of academic growth.

Chosen from county school counselor of the year winners across grade levels statewide, the finalists are committed to ensuring student success by providing services that support academic achievement, career development and social/emotional growth. Working in partnership with the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE), the Chamber Foundation will reveal state winners during the 2026-27 Champions of Learning Gala on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, in Charleston.

New in 2026, the Champions of Learning recognition program was established to shine a light on the work of professional staff within county school systems who are essential to supporting the whole child.