For Mr. Willie Dupree, Head School Counselor at Thomas Jefferson High School, supporting students isn’t just part of the job — it’s deeply personal. “I look at myself as an extension of the family,” he says. “When that child leaves home, they come to me. At that point, I’m trusted with their academic and emotional health. I am their safe, non-judgmental space to be.”

Mr. Dupree has spent the past 31 years — 26 of those at TeeJay — walking alongside students through the highs and lows of their high school experience. He’s helped students chart career paths, work through personal struggles, and discover who they want to become. “My hope is to keep my kids as balanced as possible so that they can achieve the best in life on a daily basis,” he says. “As Ice Cube would say — ‘Today was a good day.’”

The culmination of that journey often comes on May 1 every year: Decision Day. It’s a milestone event when seniors officially announce their post-graduation plans. “This day is one of great anticipation, excitement, and fun,” Mr. Dupree shares. “Students are recognized among their peers for their next steps. We celebrate them with a pep rally, the band playing, a keynote speaker, and a party on the front lawn. It’s a moment of pride — not just for the students, but for the entire school community.”

Helping students reach that point starts much earlier, though, — usually, on day one of freshman year. “As counselors, we take everything a student brings with them from previous experiences and help guide their evolution over four short years,” he explains. “You hope to provide a foundation of knowledge, skills, and experiences that will last a lifetime.”

Mr. Dupree encourages students to make the most of high school, not just academically, but personally. “Don’t be one-dimensional,” he advises. “Get involved. Build relationships with your teachers and classmates. Join clubs that interest you — and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. The more you learn, the more prepared you’ll be.”