Hello!

I am Eric Cleaves and I am from Atlanta, Ga and a graduate of Fayetteville High School. I graduated from Athens State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education and Health and received his Master's Degree in School Counseling from The University of West Alabama. I am married to Tiffany and we have two boys. (MJ and Isaiah) I am super excited about being part of Madison City Schools and James Clemens High School. 

Go Jets!

Contact me if you are a part of the 2026 cohort.

I grew up outside of Florence where I attended Rogers High School and later ran cross-country and served as an ambassador for the University of North Alabama.  Madison, however, has been my home since 2007.  I worked as a seventh and eighth grade language arts instructor for twelve years and now as a guidance counselor at James Clemens.  Since joining Madison City, I have sponsored First Priority, worked with Student-2- Student, and served as a cross-country and track coach for many years.  Working with students and their families both in school and in my church has played a big role in my life, in addition to spending time with my own family.  I look forward to meeting you and working with your family.

I am a sunshine state girl, born and raised, having lived in Florida most of my life. I grew up in a family of basketball coaches so I love all things sports-related and had the opportunity to play both volleyball and basketball at the collegiate level. After graduating from undergrad I spent my first couple of years in education as a Kindergarten teacher and then went on to pursue a masters in counseling. I spend my summers traveling to Kenya to work, serve, and learn alongside some pretty incredible people at a children's home and it's become one of my favorite places in the world. This is my fourth year in the Madison City School District and love getting to be a part of the Jet family at James Clemens! I love my work as a high school counselor because I get to play a small role in helping students reach their full potential; not just academically, but as well-rounded individuals. Watching students come into their own person is a gift I am thankful to experience on a daily basis! I look forward to meeting both students and their families so please don't hesitate to let me know how I can be of assistance. I am here to help and support in any way that I can!

 With a career spanning from 1997, I have had the pleasure of serving Madison City Schools in various capacities. I began my journey at Discovery Middle as a special educator, where I taught for nine years. I then transitioned to Bob Jones High School, spending six years as a guidance counselor. Currently, I am thrilled to be a part of the James Clemens team as a JET.

As your guidance counselor, my mission is to support students in achieving optimal personal growth, developing positive social skills and values, setting appropriate career goals, and realizing their full academic potential.

Originally from Illinois, I now live in Madison County with my husband and children. I enjoy traveling with my family, attending sporting events, and participating in church activities.

Please feel free to reach out if you need any assistance: rdsmith@madisoncity.k12.al.us or (256) 216-5313.

"I think education is power. I think that being able to communicate with people is power. One of my main goals on this planet is to encourage people to empower themselves." - Oprah

Born and raised in the heart of Texas, I bring 34 years of experience in education to my role.  My journey began in the classroom, where I spent 9 years as a teacher before transitioning to counseling.  For the past 25 years, I've had the privilege of serving as a counselor at various education levels - from elementary to junior high and high school - in Texas, New Mexico, and currently, in my 12th year with Madison City Schools, focusing on college and career counseling.  

My work centers around guiding students through the complexities of the college application process, securing scholarships, navigating FAFSA, understanding NCAA eligibility, and exploring career pathways.  My commitment to student success is rooted in my own personal educational background - I earned my undergraduate degree from Texas Tech University and pursued graduate studies at the University of Texas of the Permian Basin.

Outside of work, I am an avid supporter of sports, passionately following the Texas Tech Red Raiders, Dallas Cowboys, Kansas City Chiefs, and, of course, our own JCHS Jets!  Family is incredibly important to me; I've been happily married to my high school sweetheart who served in the Army and is now retired.  We have 2 wonderful adult children who continue to inspire us every day.  

In my leisure time, I find joy in traveling, camping, and snow skiing, but my greatest fulfillment comes from helping young people discover their paths and achieve their dreams.  It is a privilege to support and empower the next generation as they embark on their educational and career journeys.  Please feel free to contact me at (256) 216-5313 or llmeskunas@madisoncity.k12.al.us if I can be of assistance in any way.  Also, visit our Guidance page regularly for college, career, and scholarship information.