I grew up outside of Florence where I later ran cross-country and served as an ambassador for the University of North Alabama.  Madison, however, has been my home since 2007.  I served as a seventh and eighth grade langauge 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 to Student, and as a former cross-country and track coach for mulitple years.    Working with students and their familes both in school and in my church has played a big role in my life and been my passion.  However, my family is my heart. 

Hello and welcome to James Clemens High School!  I will be your college and career resource.  This is my seventh year with Madison City Schools and I feel so fortunate to be a part of such a great team of people.  I have 30 years of experience, 9 of those as a fourth grade Language Arts teacher and 21 as a counselor.  As your child's College and Career Counselor, I will assist him or her in the college application process, financial aid, NCAA, scholarships, and career opportunities.

I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics (Human Development and Family Studies) from Texas Tech University and a Master of Arts degree in Education (Counseling) from The University of Texas of the Permian Basin.  I am married to my high school sweetheart (Michael) and have two wonderful children Alexi (27) and Garrett (25).  I love to travel, snow ski, and go camping.  I am partial to the Texas Tech Red Raiders during football season, but please don't hold that against me as I will do my very best to make this a wonderful year for you and your family!  

For scholarship information please follow us on twitter @JCHSJetAdvisory.  Thank you for trusting me to assist your child through high school.  Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have questions or concerns.

My name is Heather Porter.  I am proud to be a part of James Clemens, and I am looking forward to spending many years here as a member of the James Clemens family.   I earned my Bachelor's Degree from Athens State College in Special Education and my Master's Degree from the University of North Alabama.   I began my career in education in 1996.   I truly enjoy working with high school students and feel that these years are the most pivotal in a person's life.  Please feel free to contact me if you have questions or concerns in which you feel I can be of assistance.

  In my spare time, I love spending time with my two wonderful children and husband. We enjoy spending time at the pool and cooking out! 

Have a wonderful year and I look forward to working with you!

Counselor: Class of 2021 & G-O (9th)

I've been employed with Madison City Schools since 1997, first at Discovery Middle, where I taught for nine years as a special educator, I then transferred to Bob Jones for six years as a guidance counselor. I am now very excited to be a JET at James Clemens! As your guidance counselor, my goal is for all to achieve optimal personal growth, acquire positive social skills and values, set appropriate career goals, and assist students in realizing their full academic potential.

I was born and raised in Illinois, and now reside in Madison, with my husband, Brett, and children, Bryson and Briana. They are my joy!  I love traveling with my family, going to sporting events, and being active in church events.

Please contact me if I can be of assistance to you and your family, rsmith@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