School Counseling
At Karns Middle School, the School Counseling Department is committed to supporting our students in their academic development, social and emotional development, and college and career readiness. The focus of the school counseling program is to help students be academically prepared for secondary and post-secondary education, to be well-adjusted members of society, to become life-long learners, and to become productive citizens. Counselors are involved in many aspects of student support, including individual and group counseling, academic planning and advising, and career exploration. In addition, the School Counseling Department coordinates various school activities, such as Career Day, Job Shadow Day, Link-Up Mentoring, Angel Tree, Thanksgiving Baskets, and PROJECT U, the group dedicated to promoting kindness within the school.
If you have questions regarding these items or your student at KMS, we are happy to speak with you! Please call the front office at 865-539-7732 and ask for your student's counselor or e-mail from the links below. Counselors serve students based on their last names.
Please Note: Counselors monitor their email and referral forms on school days between the hours of 8:00-3:45 P.M. In the event of an emergency, please call 911.
Our Counselors
Kristina Sims
Kristina has been a dedicated school counselor for the past 11 years, passionate about supporting students’ academic development, social and emotional growth, and college and career readiness. She received her undergraduate degree in Child and Family Studies from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. In 2015, she enrolled at Lincoln Memorial University, where she subsequently earned a master’s degree in School Counseling and an Educational Specialist degree (Ed.S.) majoring in Educational Leadership.
During her leisure time, Kristina enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, watching sports, and loving on her sweet Yorkie puppy, Layla. Fun fact: Kristina has a serious obsession with shoes!
Ms. Sims serves students with last names A-K and does Related Arts scheduling.
Michelle Williams
Michelle Williams is a native of Arizona with a deep passion for supporting students in their academic and personal growth. She earned both a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s in Education in School Counseling from Middle Tennessee State University.
With over two decades of experience as a school counselor, she has had the privilege of serving at Karns Middle School for 17 of those years. Her journey into this profession was inspired by a school counselor who made a lasting impact on her during her own high school years—she knew then that she wanted to give back in the same way.
Outside of work, she loves to travel and explore new places. A fun fact about Michelle: for the past six years, she has played weekly trivia with her friends—it’s one of her favorite ways to unwind and keep her mind sharp!
Mrs. Williams serves students with last names L-Z and does academic scheduling.